Medaille D’Or Cider Apple

Malus domestica ‘Medaille D’Or’

A robust and fine-flavored apple; this vintage French variety, originally introduced in 1865, is not called “Gold Medal” for nothing! The squat, gold apple shows a rose kiss when fully ripe, and also a fine net of russeting.  The award-winning, “bittersweet” fruit produces a sweet, astringent juice high in tannins and converts into a cider with high alcohol content and a strong, fruity flavor. Per WSU: tannin (percent tannic acid): 0.82; Acid (percent malic acid): 0.32; pH: 4.09; SG: 1.059; ^oBrix 14.9

Wide, spreading, vigorous tree with good crotch angles. No resistance to fireblight, but resistant to scab. Late-blooming: flower group 5.

Hardy to USDA Zone: 4

Chill Hours Needed: Unverified; most apples require 800-1000 hours

Mature Height: 15′-18′ 

Sun: Full Sun

Ripening Time: Late Fall

Pollination: Bloom Group 5 Late; needs a pollinizer from Group 4. or 5

Semi-Dwarf Rootstock: MM106

Read our Apple Growing Guide