Zestar

Well, it's not very old, but you won't find it in the grocery store and we think you'll like it. Zestar is a 1998 release from the University of Minnesota breeding program. Technically it has a “!” after it’s name but we’re not keen on lots of !!! in writing. Zestar! is the trademarked name of the apple variety whose “real” (cultivar) name is “Minnewashta.” This means that anyone can use the name Minnewashta when describing and using the apple, but you need special permission to use the name Zestar!. As far as we know, we’re not about to be arrested for using “Zestar” in our CSA literature.

Ripening in late August, Minnewashta has an uncharacteristically long storage life for a summer apple. It'll keep for up to seven weeks in a cool place. On this variety, organic apple guru Michael Phillips says, "When you tree-ripen Zestar, it's fabulous". The flavor is a balance of sweet and tart with a faint reminiscence of brown sugar. Eat it fresh!