Reinette Rouge Etoile

Reinette Rouge Etoile were first described in 1830 near Maastricht, a city located on the border between the Netherlands and Belgium. They were then widely grown in Europe but declined in popularity after the 1950’s. However today they have developed a niche market and prized amongst apple enthusiasts. The name Reinette Rouge Etoile translates from French to mean “red star apple,” a reference to the star pattern when the fruit is cut in half or for the star-shaped russeting on the skin.



Reinette Rouge produces heavy crops on upright, part tip bearing trees and does especially well on sandy soils. The flowers are pollinated by varieties from Groups 4, 5 or 6. Apples can be picked in late September and will store until January.

The apple is a late dessert variety with a deep, red skin and star-shaped russet freckles. The flesh is white, crisp and juicy which is often streaked with carmine and stained pink under the skin. They have a slightly acid raspberry flavour.