DUTCH MASTER
SKILLCULT APPLE BREEDING PROJECT
This page is for information about my seedling apple Dutch Master
Dutch master is named for the rich oil painting-like russet patterning. This Russet effect is highly variable, but when present, it is often striking. Dutch Master refers to master artists from Holland, most especially regarding a mastery of light in oil paintings, such as the girl with the pearl earring.
Dutch Master is supposed to be a cross between Grenadine and Gold Rush made in 2011. I suspect that it may actually be a cross between Grenadine and Allen’s Everlasting though. It resembles Allen’s more in look and flavor. The tree makes highly variable sizes of fruit from small to large. The fruit often have interesting russet patterning over red striped skin. The flesh is very firm, almost hard when less ripe. The flavor can be quite rich at times, leaning toward a generic fruity flavor. It is pretty tart, making it suitable for cooking. Slices hold their shape pretty well in pie too, an uncommon characteristic. It shows none of the red flesh of its parent Grenadine.
A good tart cooker and holds its shape in a pie
Aside from the appearance at times, this is not a sensational apple in any particular way, but it seems a solid performer and I look forward to eating them for the delicious, fruity flavor. In the 2022 season, I had to keep myself from eating them all early. Responses from other tasters have been very favorable as well. I look forward to many returns.
I don’t have the season of this apple dialed in yet, but it is not super late and the season is long, especially for cooking. It seems to hold pretty well and also will probably exhibit phased ripening, instead of ripening all at once, a great trait for home growers.
Dutch Master is highly variable in size. The flattened shape and spidery russetting are distinguishing characteristic, though they both vary as well.
As with all my varieties, scion wood for grafting is available in the winter for a short time. Subscribe to my blog to find out when scions drop. As of 2025, grafted trees are available through a partnership with Cummin’s Nursery as well.