The Diversity of European Apples: Varieties Favored by Vietnamese Consumers

Apples grown in European orchards have long enjoyed popularity in international markets. Their unique flavor and consistent quality make them a favorite among consumers worldwide.

Regardless of the destination market—particularly in Asian countries far from Europe, where apples are often seen as a luxury product—these fruits must meet high standards of firmness, juiciness, and crispness. Vietnamese consumers, like many others around the world, appreciate European apples for their outstanding quality. Among the varieties imported and widely enjoyed in Vietnam, several stand out as consumer favorites:

Gala

‘Gala’ is one of the most popular and well-known apple varieties globally. It originated in New Zealand in the 1930s from a cross between ‘Kidd’s Orange Red’ and ‘Golden Delicious’. The fruit is medium-sized, round to slightly oval, with thin, smooth skin that ranges from yellow to red with stripes or blush, depending on growing conditions. The flesh is light cream-colored, crisp, and very juicy. Its mild, pleasantly sweet flavor—low in acidity—makes it appealing to a broad range of consumers. ‘Gala’ is highly versatile: perfect for fresh eating, fruit salads, desserts, baking, and juicing. Its sweetness also makes it a favorite among children and families.

Red Delicious

One of the world’s most recognizable apple varieties, ‘Red Delicious’ originated in the United States in the late 19th century. The apples are known for their deep red skin, often with a glossy sheen, and a distinctive elongated, conical shape with five subtle ridges at the calyx. The flesh is cream-white, tender, and juicy, with a sweet but mild flavor and subtle aroma. Primarily consumed fresh, ‘Red Delicious’ is valued for both its visual appeal and sweetness.

Golden Delicious

This globally cultivated variety is known for its golden-yellow skin and exceptional flavor. The apples are medium to large, slightly conical or oval in shape, with smooth, thin skin that turns golden when fully ripe. Small brown spots (lenticels) may be present on the surface. The flesh is cream-colored, crisp yet tender, and extremely juicy. ‘Golden Delicious’ apples are sweet with a delicate, honeyed aroma. Highly versatile, they are excellent for fresh eating, fruit salads, baking, desserts, and juicing. Thanks to their natural sweetness and juiciness, they are also widely used in making purees and jams.

Granny Smith

One of the most distinctive apple varieties, ‘Granny Smith’ is easily recognized by its bright green color and bold tart flavor. Originating from Australia in the 1860s, these apples are medium to large, round to slightly conical, with smooth, glossy skin and occasional white speckles. The white flesh is firm, crunchy, and very juicy, known for retaining its crispness long after harvest. With their sharp acidity, ‘Granny Smith’ apples are ideal for culinary use, particularly baking. They are also excellent in fruit salads, as their flesh resists browning, and are popular in cider and juice production.

Pink Lady (Cripps Pink)

Also known as ‘Cripps Pink’, this variety is renowned for its rosy-pink to red skin and outstanding flavor. Bred in Australia from a cross between ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Lady Williams’, the apples are medium to large with a slightly elongated, symmetrical shape. The skin is smooth, shiny, and varies from pinkish-red to yellow-green in areas with less sun exposure. The white flesh is firm, exceptionally crisp, and juicy. ‘Pink Lady’ apples are prized for their long-lasting crunch and a complex flavor profile, combining hints of honey and spice. Highly versatile, they are excellent for fresh consumption, baking, desserts, fruit salads, juices, and ciders. Their high natural sugar content also makes them ideal for purees and preserves.