Somerset Redstreak

Why you should be excited

Somerset Redstreak is a good-quality traditional English bittersweet cider apple that’s still widely planted in the U.K.

The story of Somerset Redstreak

Although the word ‘eschew’ is too obscure for a ‘plain language’ writer to use much, there’s something about its sound that perfectly matches its meaning (to eschew, is to deliberately avoid). Occasionally, it’s the perfect word.

Like right now. In our orchard, we generally eschew widely grown commercial apple varieties.

Our thinking is, why grow varieties everyone can find in grocery stores? Which is why we don’t eschew Somerset Redstreak, even though it is one of the most commercially important cider apple varieties in the U.K.

It might be common there, but certainly not in North America. So we happily grow this quality cider apple.

We eschew Red Delicious and Granny Smith, but not Somerset Redstreak.

Somerset Redstreak Facts

Its origins

Discovered in England, early 20th century.

Flavour, aroma, texture

The bittersweet juice is of good quality.

Appearance

The pretty apple is roundish, with red stripes over yellow.

When they’re available

Mid-late season (usually in late September)..

Quality for fresh eating

Nope. Cider only.

Quality for cooking

Stick to cider with this one.

Quality for cider

Very good.

Keeping ability

Limited (best to press within 2 to 3 weeks of harvest).