Blenheim Orange Apple

The Blenheim Orange Apple was discovered in the mid-eighteenth century. Originally it was known as Kempster’s Pippin, thus called after the man who first planted the tree, however in the early nineteenth century the name has been changed with the consent of the Duke of the time. The Blenheim Orange Apple is said to have been found near Woodstock in Oxfordshire, in the park of the Blenheim Palace, where the duke of Marlborough had its seat.

The tree became popular, and the apple has been considered as one of the finest of English apples. However, its cultivation has been decreasing with the growing importance of industrialized agriculture during the late 20th century and the preference given to more suited hybrid apple varieties. Nowadays, Blenheim Orange Apples are only available in a few orchards in Kent.
The Blenheim Orange is a medium-large, flat-round apple. Its color is characteristic, it is orange-red with a few red stripes over a greenish yellow or gold. The flesh is pale cream and slightly crumbly. Its flavor is addictive, plain, nutty and quite sweet.

A Blenheim Orange Apple is a late-season apple both edible fresh and suitable for dessert and cooking. It is also perfect accompaniment to cheese.