This is the Kazemaru Farm Nōka ga Hoshita Ringo Chiyuki, featuring semi-dried pieces of Chiyuki apples grown in Aomori Prefecture.
The pieces were wedge-shaped and varied in size from 1.5 to 2 cm at their widest. The pieces of Chiyuki apples, known for their resistance to oxidation, had a pale yellow hue, with some pieces retaining the deep burgundy skin marked by the ‘snowflake-like white spots’ from which the apple derives its name. The dried apple pieces emitted a strong, sweet aroma upon opening the package.
On tasting, the pieces yielded easily to the bite, offering an initial sweetness that developed into a floral depth, reminiscent of a lightly spiced apple pie. As one chewed, the flavour deepened into a rich, sweet apple taste with minimal acidity. Upon rehydration, the texture softened further, becoming almost pulpy on the palate, without the crispness found in dried Jonathan or Fuji apples. However, the distinctive flavour profile made these dried apples a delightful way to enjoy this unique variety out of season.
This Kazemaru Farm Nōka ga Hoshita Ringo Chiyuki contained 15 g. It was produced in Japan and purchased in Hirosaki, Japan in 2024.