Jonathan

The Jonathan varies in flavor from mild to tart, but it also has a spicy tang. The flesh of this apple is crisp and juicy. The Jonathan is a good apple for both cider and for eating out of hand. The apple does not keep very well but it is a good apple for cider or sauce because of its unique spicy character.   

Granny Smith

This variety is a real supermarket success because it holds up well in shipping and has about a six month shelf life if refrigerated. This well-rounded apple is good for baking, sauce and juice and although people will eat it fresh, it's not as popular as some of the other varietals. Although the Granny is tart, it's not necessarily sour and some of the paler green ones will have a little sweetness.

Golden Delicious

This apple works well in pies and sauce with little or no sugar. The mellow, juicy and sweet character of the Golden Delicious makes it a good apple for cider. This later varietal ripens from mid-September through late October. Skin that is darker yellow signals over ripeness. 

Gala

The Gala was developed in New Zealand by J.H. Kidd, crossing Golden Delicious and his own Kidd’s Orange Red. The flesh of the apple is crisp and thick, with a mild sweet flavor. The Gala is often used in cider blends. Galas are a great apple for eating out of hand and drying but they are not the most flavorful for baking. They will keep well in the refrigerator for about three months.  

Fuji

The Fuji was developed from American parents, Ralls Janet and Red Delicious. The cream-colored, firm, fine-grained flesh is juicy and sweet. It's an American favorite ranking well in taste tests especially among late-maturing varieties. This apple is harvested from September through early November. Fuji's have an amazing shelf life. They can be kept in the refrigerator for about one year before they will begin to spoil.