So here at GH, right behind one of the office buildings and next door to the FarmLab, is our vintage orchard. I call it vintage ’cause in Sonoma County apple orchards are an endangered species. Once the humble apple accounted for the majority of agriculture production here. In recent decades though urban development and vineyards have pushed them out. But not at Gen Hydro, we LOVE the apple trees! Not only are they picturesque, but they also make tons of yummy yummy fruit. Fruit that helps us feel connected to the farming roots here in our hometown.

Of course these aren’t your standard red delicous. We grow Gravenstein apples, a heirloom variety that is especially prized. First, it’s a beauty. The skin is speckled green and red and they just get prettier as they ripen. Secondly, the fruit itself has a delicious flesh. In fact, the Gravenstein has been recognized by the Slow Food Foundation for Biodiversity and was added to its Ark of Flavor. This means that this groundbreaking association of foodies and farmers has deemed it worthy of preservation and production. Aren’t they just lovely?

Here’s some more info on Gravensteins from All About Apples: