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Tuesday October 3, 2017 Edition
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All Hail The Apple

Strolling along the orchard!
photo by Rebecca Leger
Strolling along the orchard!

Tuesday October 3, 2017

By Cookie Steponaitis

While Mother Nature is sending rather strong mixed messages as to what season it currently is, the orchards of the Champlain Valley have no such issue. Decked and dazzling the trees are showcasing crops of over 120 different types of apples. While it is enough to make some people break into a happy dance, it is more than just a family tradition. It represents an age-old industry, that like Vermont agriculture itself, has grown and evolved to stay competitive and yet true to the Vermont ethos of fresh products with a quality taste and reputation. So off we go to the orchards of the Champlain Valley in search of the perfect apple.
    Looking for a sweet apple? Perhaps the Alexander, American Golden Pippen or the Blushing Golden, a Gala, a Golden Delicious or a Golden Supreme might be in your basket. Looking for the tart side of the taste pallet? Try an Early McIntosh, the Golden Rose or the Granny Smith might be just what you are looking for. More of a traditionalist? McIntosh, Northern Spy, Empire, and Red Delicious are all there too. Where to start? A basket, an orchard and you are well on your way. While there is a lot of well-deserved attention being paid to the Honey Crisp, there are literally over a hundred types out there for you to taste and try. So, onward to pies, flapjacks, preserves, and more. Celebrate fall, family and a tradition dating back to the first settlers in the valley- let’s go apple picking. You won’t regret it and you will be celebrating tradition while eating some new arrivals on the apple orchard scene as well. Check it out and see that there are 20 orchards within driving distance waiting for you to take a bite out of the crop of 2017.


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