Appearance:
Color: The most distinguishing feature is its deep, uniform, glossy red skin. Modern Red Delicious apples have been selectively bred to achieve an intense, almost solid crimson hue. Older strains might have had some subtle striping or blush.
Shape: It has a characteristic conical or heart shape, often with five prominent bumps or "feet" at the base (blossom end) that extend towards the stem.
Size: Typically medium to large in size.
Skin: The skin is thick, relatively tough, and shiny, often appearing waxy. This thick skin contributes to its excellent shelf life and resistance to bruising during transport.
Flesh: The flesh is white to creamy white.
Flavor Profile & Aroma:
Taste: This is where the Red Delicious often receives mixed reviews. It's generally described as sweet but very mild, often lacking the complex tartness or intense apple flavor found in many other varieties. Some describe hints of melon or a subtle floral note. The sweetness can sometimes be overwhelming without balancing acidity.
Aroma: It has a mild, subtly sweet, and fresh apple aroma, but it's generally not as aromatic as some other varieties.
Texture:
Crispness: When fresh and at its best, the Red Delicious can be crisp and juicy.
Mealiness: However, a common criticism, especially with apples that have been stored for a while or are past their prime, is that the flesh can become mealy, soft, and somewhat dry or watery rather than truly crisp. This mealiness is a major reason why its popularity has declined in some markets compared to newer, consistently crisp varieties.
Skin Texture: The thick skin can be chewy or tough, which some people find unpleasant.
Size & Weight:
Averages around 150-250 grams, similar to many other commonly available apples.
Seasonality & Availability:
Red Delicious apples are typically harvested in the late summer to early autumn (around September-October in the Northern Hemisphere).
Due to their excellent storage capabilities (long shelf life and response to Controlled Atmosphere storage), they are available year-round in most supermarkets globally.
Other Notable Characteristics & Uses:
"Classic" Apple Image: For many, the Red Delicious is the quintessential "apple" due to its universally recognized shape and deep red color, making it a staple in fruit bowls and school lunches for decades.
Breeding Parent: Despite its criticisms, the Red Delicious has been an important parent in the breeding of many newer and more popular varieties, including Fuji and Empire, due to its appealing color and good growing qualities.
Best Use: Primarily best for fresh eating or in salads due to its attractive appearance and relatively firm flesh when fresh. It is generally not recommended for baking or cooking as its flesh tends to break down quickly and can become mushy. It can be used for juice or cider.
Nutritional Value: Like all apples, it's a good source of dietary fiber, Vitamin C, and antioxidants, particularly in its red skin.
In summary, the Red Delicious apple is a visually striking fruit known for its iconic deep red color and conical shape. While historically dominant and widely available due to its excellent shelf life, its taste is often described as mildly sweet, and its texture can unfortunately become mealy, leading some consumers to prefer newer, more flavorful, and consistently crisp varieties.
