Description
Re-discovered in old orchard at Stowe Hall, in Bardolph, Norfolk in 1820 but listed in the fruit catalogue of W Perfect of Pontefract in 1769. This is an excellent culinary apple, which is said to make the best apple pies! Stores very well, and mellows to become a brisk, richly flavoured eating apple by spring.
"Imagine, if you will, how lovely an avenue of Golden Noble with the crimson-fruited Mere de Ménage might be, just as discovered at Carr Bank orchard during conservation work in Arnside and Silverdale. It has beautiful blossom, resistant to late frosts, and can be recommended for northern orchards, including those in high rainfall areas. It is an old
variety, listed in the 1769 nursery catalogue of William Perfect, of Pontefract, Yorkshire, though claimed to have been brought to attention by Patrick Flanagan, Head Gardener to Sir Thomas Hare, of Stowe Hall, Norfolk in 1820.
Having enjoyed commercial success until the 1930s in the UK, it also ventured abroad across northern and eastern Europe to the former USSR; it is no longer grown for market in Britain, but is still a choice apple for orchards and gardens. It cooks to a creamy textured golden froth, that Hogg describes as 'baking of a clear amber colour, perfectly melting, with a rich acidity', but with slow cooking can be made to hold its substance; it needs little if any enhancement by sugar." © Lin Hawthorne - 'The Northern Pomona'.
For help with choosing the correct rootstock for your needs, please click here A Guide to Rootstocks
For help with choosing the correct size and shape, please click here A Guide to Fruit Tree Shapes
