In the spring of 2012, Original Sin’s founder established a test orchard on his family’s former dairy farm in Upstate New York. Built on a modern trellis system, the orchard now features more than 150 apple varieties—including cider apples, modern cultivars, and historically significant heirlooms. Each year, we’re excited to introduce new and intriguing varieties, continually enriching what we call our “Edible Museum of Apples.”

Growing these rare and storied apples has connected us to the rich agricultural heritage of our nation. During America’s Golden Age of Pomology—from 1805 to 1905—there were as many as 17,000 named apple varieties, each with its own unique shape, size, and flavor. Sadly, many of these have disappeared over time.

Today, with the resurgence of the U.S. cider industry has come a renewed passion for apple diversity. From hobbyists to commercial growers, people across the country are planting an expanding array of apple varieties. This renaissance is especially evident at farmers markets throughout apple-growing regions.

So, next time you spot an unfamiliar apple at a farm stand, we encourage you to give it a try. A single bite into an heirloom variety can introduce you to the fascinating and flavorful world of apple diversity.