New Zealand Breeze Apple Variety Introduction: Taste Characteristics and Growing Conditions

The Breeze variety apple has pinkish-red blush over a yellow skin. It is aromatic and sweet, with a very crisp, dense white flesh. This is a refreshing and delicious snack suitable for children and adults.

The Breeze apples currently grown in New Zealand by Freshco are harvested at optimal maturity in mid-February over a two-week period. They are then shipped to the United States by the end of March. The unique combination of New Zealand's warm summer sunshine, crisp winter frosts and clean, pure water allows the apples to ripen slowly and naturally. As a result, they have a crisp texture and rich flavor.

Due to growing demand for Breeze apples, growers in New Zealand have doubled production, and there are now growing areas in Washington as well. They work closely with Sage Fruit Company and its growers to bring this new variety to the United States. The climate of eastern Washington mirrors that of New Zealand, making it an ideal place to grow this new variety. Soon, Breeze apples will be available to consumers year-round.