New Variety of Apple: Piñata Heirloom Available in 2010

Our grocery stores are filled with the same generic varieties of fruits and vegetables, when countless heirloom varieties are coveted by home gardeners. Not all agricultural producers are stuck in the same variety rut.  Stemilt Growers is introducing a new variety of apple: Piñata.

• The PIÑATA!® apple originated in the 1970's after researchers in Dresden- Pillnitz, Germany crossed the Golden Delicious, Cox's Orange Pippin and the Duchess of Oldenburg varieties. The apple was released commercially throughout Europe in 1986.
• In 2004, Stemilt Growers--a leading tree fruit company based in Wenatchee, Washington--trademarked the name Piñata. Stemilt holds the exclusive rights to grow and market this variety in the United States.
• Under its former names (Pinova and Sonata), Piñata was deemed "Apple of the Year" in Germany in 2001. In 2004, Stemilt renamed the variety Piñata, in order to tie-in the apple's given names with its exciting attributes.
• Piñata apples are stripy red over an orange background. A blend of high sugar and high acid levels give Piñata a special flavor. Crisp and juicy, Piñata has a classic apple flavor with a unique tropical twist.

The Piñata reminds me of a Pink Lady, one of my favorite varieties of apples, and my children really loved them. They are tangy and sweet, they are quite beautiful in appearance. They are available under the Artisan Organics label.

Personally, I am annoyed that heirloom varieties would carry a registered trademark. These varieties belong to the people of the world, not agricultural companies.  It shouldn't need legal protection or have exclusive rights.

Disclosure: I was sent free samples of these products to review. No prior assurances were given as to whether the review be positive or negative.

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Posted by Jennifer Lance at January 15, 2010 1:35 AM