We had 12 travel writers to our orchard last month. One of the questions asked was do apples really have different flavors so as part of our program we had an apple tasting and included some of the below.
Apple varieties with Fenouillet in the name have a fennel or anise flavor to them. Below are four that we grow with that description and flavor. This flavor can be enhanced by placing the apples in a bag for a bit and when you open it the scent can be like opening a bag of candy licorice!
The images are in sequence of the description with the exception of Fenouillet de Rose which I do not have any pics of yet. All of these are available as scion wood, to me the anise flavor is not that noticeable until you capture it in a closed bag but some guests to our orchard say they taste it on apples right off the trees.
Fenouillet de Ribours - France, early 1600’s. Late ripening large fruit is reddish with russettiing. Fennel (anise) flavor, sweet, crisp, rich flavor.
Fenouillet Gris - France, 1608. Medium sized fruit ripens late. Golden yellow nearly covered with brown russet, with a greyish brown tinge on the sunny side. Yellowish flesh, rich, tender, crisp and sugary with a fine aromatic flavor.
Fenouillet Rouge - France, late 1600’s. Similar to Fenouillet Gris but having a reddish brown flush. Sweet and crisp with a very rich flavor. Ready to pick in October and will store for several months. A very attractive looking apple and reliable cropper.
Fenouillet de Rose - France, early 1600’s, fennel (anise) flavor.
Derek Mills (derekcs2005@aol.com)
Hocking Hills Orchard at Four Seasons Cabins in SE Ohio.