Philo gold apples are a variety of Golden Delicious grown by the original owners of French Laundry, the Napa Valley restaurant made famous by Thomas Keller. The philo gold is a variety only grown in Philo, California which is located two hours north of San Francisco.

The philo gold apple is a medium-sized Golden Delicious variety. It has a light golden yellow outer skin, speckled with small spots called lenticels. Lenticels serve as pores, allowing more oxygen to pass between the skin and the flesh of the apple. The philo gold apple has a thin skin and a white inner flesh that offers a sweet flavor and a firm crisp texture. The California apples are one of the rare varieties that are not waxed after being hand-picked and are minimally processed prior to selling. Waxing is used primarily to extend the life of the fruit, to improve its visual appeal and limit moisture loss. More organic farms are not using this method and instead are picking fruit when ripe and selling more locally.

Serving Ideas

The sweet flavors and crisp texture of the philo gold apple make for a great fresh, out-of-hand snack in addition to many a baked good. Top cakes with slices of philo gold apples, or add to hearty bran muffins. Thomas Keller’s French Laundry uses philo gold apples to make sorbet and croquettes, while nearby Bouchon Bistro uses them in their tarte tatin.

Geography/History

According to the family that owns and operates Philo Apple Farm, the orchard of Golden Delicious trees on their property just north of California wine country was the very first to be planted in California. The Schmitt’s bought the 30-acre orchard in the early 1980s and have revived its grounds and the orchards thrived. Philo gold apples make appearances at farmer’s markets and on the dessert plates of many well-known restaurants in the wine making region of Northern California.

Seasons/Availability

Philo gold apples are available in the early fall through the winter months.