A firm, sun-yellow apple with a fresh, tart aroma that tastes very much like an Elstar. That's the Sonnenglanz® from Boer Gijs, Fruitbedrijf Jongerius' new trade name and orchard store. "This apple originally comes from Germany and lives up to its name," say brothers Pierre and Norbert Jongerius who are taking over the fruit company.
"Its beautiful, yellow sheen really stands out. So, it's a ray of sunshine on the trees and shelves. Last year, we sold the first Sonnenglanz® in our orchard store. It was great that many customers came back just for this apple. That gave us the impetus to continue."
Sonnenglanz® on the tree; on the right, Pierre and Norbert
Jongerius currently has 1.5 hectares of these apples. That is good for a volume of about 8,000kg in its first growth year. For next season, they are aiming for a supply of about 40,000 kilos. "We got in touch with the breeder, Dr. Neumüller, for this variety. He owns Bayerische Obstzentrum. We and him are trying to conquer the Dutch apple market with the Sonnenglanz® ," the fruit growers say.
"We cultivate other varieties like Pinova, Elstar, Goudreinet, Wellant, Delcorf and pears like Conference and Gräfin Gepa. But it's challenging to retain control of this apple's sales and remain in charge of the product's sales, as growers. We're selective in our sales and choose clients who truly see this apple's added value."
"We sell it to various parties, both retailers and traders. By paying close attention to each buyer, we learn where the apple fares best. We do this by visiting traders or retailers to recommend the apple to customers. We're considering setting up a grower's association for the Sonnenglanz® apple," the brothers explain.
Pierre Jongerius with Sonnenglanz® at a retailer
The apples are not their recognizable yellow during the first months of growth. In fact, they are a blushed red during growth. That later disappears completely. The apple is very productive and is harvested more than once. Picking time is around late September and early October.
"People genuinely need to learn to eat this apple. With a yellow apple, people often expect a flat Golden Delicious flavor, but the Sonnenglanz® has a sweet, tart flavor profile and tastes very much like Elstar. Its average 7 g/l acidity and 14% Brix confirm that. They're just much firmer than Elstar."
"This apple's first bite is firm and, even after a time outside of a conditioned environment, they remain so. So, ideal for all market participants. This apple displays well too, and doesn't turn brown once it's sliced. That's thanks to its high levels of antioxidants. It doesn't stop there - even people with a mild apple allergy can eat this apple. The factory apples' juice tastes unique too, and mildly allergic people can also drink this," the men conclude.
For more information:
Pierre and Norbert Jongerius
Mts. Fruitbedrijf Jongerius
19 Waijensedijk
3992 LN, Houten, NL
Tel: +31 (0)6 1386 4131
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.boergijs.nl
