New Zealand Apple Rose are a medium to large varietal, and have a blocky, rectangular to conical shape with flat shoulders and a slightly lopsided appearance. The apple’s skin is thin, smooth, glossy, and taut, covered in prominent tan lenticels with some ribbing. The surface also has a faint yellow-green base coloring, almost entirely covered in crimson to red-pink blush. Underneath the skin, the ivory to pale yellow flesh is fine-grained, aqueous, firm, and crisp, encasing a small central core filled with tiny black-brown seeds. Rose Apples should feel heavy for their size and release a light, floral and sweet aroma.
The Rose Apple has a deep and sweet flavour that can be best described as an old-fashioned candy flavour with a surprisingly tangy finish. It has a firm texture with a classic crispy and juicy flesh. Its relatively large size makes it ideal for a large sweet healthy snack or sharing with others.