Antares apple

US importer Giumarra Wenatchee has announced that it has a new apple offering, Antarès, which has been grown in France.

Initial trial shipments will begin in February for Antarès, which is a firm, medium-sized apple developed in a French breeding programme, a hybrid of the Elstar variety.

The variety is naturally disease resistant and boasts a sweet, aromatic taste. Its flesh is juicy and delicately acidic, delivering an excellent flavour balance.

“We are offering Antarès in a 13kg Euro-style carton on the East Coast,” says Jason Bushong, division manager for Giumarra Wenatchee. “This is a classic, red-orange hued apple with similar characteristics of consumers’ favourite apples, but it offers the added benefit of a unique sustainability story.”

Due to its naturally-bred characteristics, Antarès requires 70 per cent less traditional disease treatment, reducing environmental impact and promoting shelf life.

“Giumarra will continue to offer our customers unique, exciting varieties from around the world, grown for peak flavour while considering what’s best for the environment,” says Scott Ross, eastern region business manager for Giumarra. “Market research indicates that specialty apples are driving category growth, and help draw consumers into the produce aisle. We want to continue delivering memorable flavour experiences to shoppers.

“Sampling this variety at retail is highly effective in introducing consumers to the Antarès’ great story and flavour profile,” Ross adds.