« Red Delicious »

The Red Delicious is the world's most widely grown variety. It was nearly lost many times before becoming well known; by the 1980s nearly 75% of the apples harvested in Washington State were Red Delicious. Although the popularity of the variety has declined since that time, the Red Delicious is still the symbol of the apple industry.

The fruit is medium to large with a long tapering shape. The skin is striped or solid red with yellowing. The flesh is firm and white to cream white. It is juicy, aromatic and sweet tasting. Best eaten raw or peeled because of its thick skin. Harvest is mid to late September. Reds hold up well in storage if kept continuously refrigerated.