Algoma Orchards in Newcastle is the biggest apple grower in Canada. It’s no wonder that Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s tree fruit breeding program chose them as partners to release a new apple variety.
As fourth generation farmers, the Kemp family has over a century of experience bringing Canadians apples and apple beverages.
President Kirk Kemp gave us a bit of background about Algoma Orchards and the family business.
Algoma Orchards opened their current operations in Newcastle in 2010. Kemp told us that varieties have changed a lot since he was young.
The Macintosh apple continues to be a staple for Canadian families, being both a delicious snack as well as a highly popular cooking apple.
The newest apple variety to hit store shelves this year is the Snowflake, which has rosy-red skin and white and snowflake-like lenticels. Kemp told us its white flesh is juicy, crisp and sweet with a hint of tartness.
Kemp told us what to expect on that first bite.
According to Kemp, the Snowflake apple was one of several varieties he brought back from Summerland, B.C. 20 years ago.
The Snowflake apple is still available at the Algoma Orchards Gourmet Market, and you may still find them in stock at local Walmart and Loblaws stores. Beginning in February, Kemp tells us you’ll also be able to pick them up at Costco.
Kemp shared that response has been terrific and he’s looking forward to next year.
You’ll find the Gourmet Market at 201 Regional Road 42 in Newcastle. They’re open 7 days a week, year-round and online at Apple Growers & Packers | Ontario | Algoma Orchards.
Written by Joseph Goden
