Sweetie boasts intense sweetness and crunch
US: New apple variety from FirstFruits of Washington
First planted in New Zealand, Sweetie is now grown in Wash. State by Broetje Orchards and is sold by FirstFruits Marketing. Sweetie combines the best attributes of two parents--Gala's excellent sugars alongside the firm-crisp texture of Braeburn, but with a unique flavor of its own. Characteristic with its name, Sweetie leads the pack of varieties when it comes to sweetness.
True to the Broetje growing philosophy, Sweetie stands next to Opal as an example of new variety innovation and top standards for flavor. It was first planted as a 30-acre test block in Prescott, Wash. Over the past two years, additional blocks have been planted as trees have been determined to yield good quality fruit and consumer response for the variety has been positive.
Similar to Opal, Sweetie was released in limited markets where consumer response could be measured. Initial response has been very favorable, especially amongst consumers of Gala or Fuji, whose palate tends to like a sweeter apple.
“We are always looking for new varieties that will resonate with consumers to bring to our customers. After our huge success with Opal we knew we would have to follow with something great, and I think we have found it in Sweetie,” remarked Andy Tudor, marketing manager at FirstFruits of Washington.
“Launching a new variety is a very complex process,” continued Tudor. “The fruit needs to be grower friendly, have a good shelf life and appearance, and have some kind of unique quality to get people to try it. Sweetie has all of those characteristics and I believe we have a winner once again.”
These apples are full of flavor, highlighted by an intense sweet taste and crunchy texture. It’s not just their great taste, but Sweeties’ beautiful red blush on a golden-green skin, which makes them stand out from other varieties.
Sweetie was granted its own PLU #3628, and will be featured in the new product showcase at the Fresh Summit Convention and Expo in October. FirstFruits Marketing will be available for inquires at booth #743.
FirstFruits Marketing of Washington is a collaborative apple marketing company owned by growers. These growers share a commitment to producing high quality fruit while balancing the demands of purpose, people, planet and profit so that a portion of profits can be donated to non-profit missions supporting the underserved.
For more information:
Andy Tudor
FirstFruits of Washington
Tel: 509-853-4712
email: [email protected]
www.firstfruits.com