Sandow

Why you should be excited

Sandow is a Canadian apple that ripens late in the season and delivers a cornucopia of fruit flavours.

The story of Sandow

This is one of those apples that makes us wonder why it isn’t famous and grown all over the world.

Bred in Ottawa, Ontario during the first third of the 20th century, Sandow is reputed to be absolutely delicious as a fresh-eating apple and also good in cooking, in salads (it’s slow to brown after being cut up, which is nice) and in cider.

Why do so few people know about Sandow and few orchards grow it? We don’t know.

Yes, the tree has a few quirks that require attention from the grower, but no more than some other varieties that are much better known. So let’s consider this one of Canada’s best kept apple secrets.

Our recommendation: seek Sandow out and decide for yourself.

Sandow Facts

Its origins

Bred in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; 1935 introduction.

Flavour, aroma, texture

Sweet, juicy, melting flesh. Some people swear this lively-flavoured apple delivers a definite hint of raspberries. Others say cherries.

Appearance

Bright scarlet stripes and flush over a yellow background skin colour. Medium-sized and roundish-shaped.

When they’re available

Late season (usually in mid-October).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking

Good.

Keeping ability

Very good (4 or 5 months when kept refrigerated).