Etter's Gold

Why you should be excited

Etter’s Gold is a beautiful yellow apple with an interesting history, bred by the brilliant Albert Etter.

The story of Etter's Gold

It’s interesting how folks working outside of the mainstream tend to be marginalized, even if they do great work.

Exhibit A: Albert Etter, a self-taught apple (and strawberry) breeder in early 20th century California. He bred several apple varieties that are interesting (think of Wickson, Katharine and this variety, just for starters), yet has received little credit.

Among other accomplishments, Etter was a proponent of red-fleshed apples. But one of his earliest and best creations was Etter’s Gold, which is not red at all. It is, however, a tasty apple that’s pretty and keeps extremely well.

Why aren’t Etter’s varieties better known? Because he worked outside of the mainstream, perhaps?…

Etter's Gold Facts

Its origins

Bred in Ettersburg, California, USA; introduced 1944.

Flavour, aroma, texture

This robust, aromatic apple has a distinctive flavour and is crisp and juicy.


Medium to large in size, it ripens from green to a clear golden colour.

When they’re available

Very late season (usually in November).

Quality for fresh eating

Very good.

Quality for cooking


Quality for cider

Considered to be a useful addition to cider blends.

Keeping ability

Very good (4 months or more when kept refrigerated).