Oct 12, 2016

SnapDragon apple available for limited time

SnapDragon is in stores now but only for a short time, according to Crunch Time Apple Growers, the New York state growers of the new apple. Many stores will be showcasing SnapDragon apples in high-graphic bags and display bins. Some retailers will be offering in-store sampling.

Robin Leous, Crunch Time’s business manager, reports that consumer response to SnapDragon has been overwhelming with the overall message being that “they wanted more!,” she said. SnapDragon fans have proclaimed it is “wonderfully delicious,” “perfect,” “the best apple I’ve ever eaten,” and “better than Honeycrisp.”

Crunch Time growers are planting more trees, with plans in place to increase total acres over the next three years. As trees mature, more fruit will become available.

For fans in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut, Crunch Time Apple Growers has partnered with the Tri-State Tough Mudder race Oct. 8-9, to provide apples to participating athletes. Mark Russell, SnapDragon grower and Crunch Time’s marketing committee chairman, says the brand wanted to support an event that embodies SnapDragon.

Created by the apple experts at New York’s Cornell University, SnapDragon was created using cross-breeding, with Honeycrisp as one of its parents. These apples, along with the new RubyFrost variety also bred by Cornell, are grown exclusively by Crunch Time Apple Growers.