The Vicky
Welcome to Apple Stories. This space is where you can find news about the orchard, catch up on the apple of the month; behind every apple is a story, and check out the featured topic for the month.
Victoria Limbertwig
Grown in Grundy and Warren Co, TN in the 1860’s.
As Candi and I researched the types of apples we wanted to grow, we discovered this big world of heirloom varieties. Our research has led us to some fun places and interesting people. We started the orchard with what we call “the Original 12.” Some of the apples we have not eaten yet. We planted them because the “Apple Bible” gave it a great review. The real name of the book is Apples of North America by Tom Burford. Tom’s book is a must-read if you want to geek out on some sweet apple research.
The Original 12 include Arkansas Black, Baldwin, Black Oxford, Caville Blanc, Grimes Golden, Jonathan, McIntosh, Newtown Pippin, Roxbury Russett, Spitzenburg, the Victoria Limbertwig.
This month we are featuring the Victoria Limbertwig. Part of the original 12, The Limbertwig, is one of the apples we have not eaten yet.
The Victoria Limbertwig, also known as the Sweet Limbertwig, is one of some 96 varieties of Limbertwig apples from the southern Appalachian mountain region. “Vicky,” as the tree is nicknamed, dates from around 1860 in Tennessee. There are 50 or so Limbertwig varieties still being grown, and they share the funny growth habit of weeping branches and a distinctive sweet-tart flavor.
Ripening in October, this beautiful medium-sized apple is deep red, maturing to almost purple with prominent yellow spots. This dessert apple has yellow flesh, is fine-grained and sweet. Vickys are good for fresh eating, baking, and cider.
I (Charles) can’t wait for Candi to drop this apple into one of her pies this fall. If we have enough, we will mix them in one of the fresh cider batches that we will be experimenting with this fall. If you are in the area, you will have to drop by and sample some of the cider, and who knows, there may be a piece of pie waiting for you.