Egremont Russet is a classic English russet apple from the Victorian era. It remains popular with discerning apple lovers who appreciate its unique flavour and apearance.
Egremont Russet is a medium-sized apple. The flesh seems quite dry and gets drier with keeping - it is moist rather than juicy. Traditionally described as "nutty", the flavour is more delicate than most varieties, and quite sweet. Both the flavour and the soft flesh are reminiscent of a firm pear. Yet Egremont Russet is surprisingly versatile, working well in savoury salads for example, and a popular partner for cheese.
Like many russets, Egremont Russet is a good apple for juicing. The apples are not particularly juicy, so you need plenty of them - but the resulting juice is rich, thick, and very sweet.
Egremont Russet is easy to grow, with generally good disease resistance, and a reliable though not spectacular cropper.
The characteristic russeting does not always appear if the spring weather is not conducive, particularly on young trees. The resulting apples have the flavour and texture of Egremont Russet, but the skin is a smooth golden-green colour. This is less of an issue as the tree gets older.
Egremont Russet was discovered in Sussex, England, in 1872.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2024.