Winesap apples

Winesap is an old American apple with a spicy, wine-like flavor. It has been a cider favorite for more than two centuries.

It dates back to colonial America, likely New Jersey, and was first written about in 1804. Stayman is its best-known seedling.

Winesap at a glance

Tart and spicy with a wine-like tang and firm flesh.

Winesap works in pies and sauces and is a classic cider apple.

Harvest

Late October

In stores

Fall through winter

Winesap keeps well in cold storage through winter.

Stayman

A tart, wine-like baking apple.

Arkansas Black

A dark heirloom that improves with age.

Jonathan

The tart heirloom pie apple.

What does Winesap taste like?

Tart and spicy with a wine-like tang and firm flesh.

Is Winesap good for baking?

Winesap works in pies and sauces and is a classic cider apple.

When is Winesap in season?

Winesap is harvested in late October and is usually in stores fall through winter.

How should I store Winesap apples?

Winesap keeps well in cold storage through winter.

Is Winesap a licensed apple?

No. Winesap is an open variety, so any grower can plant it.