Zestar! is a low-moderate vigor tree with an upright-spreading habit. It is precocious and reliably productive, cold hardy, and resistant to fireblight, powdery mildew, and CAR. Unfortunately it is very susceptible to scab, but this is, in all other respects, a great early-season apple. The bloom time for Zestar! is very early; care should be taken when selecting a pollenizer.

It is a very pretty, round, rosy red apple. The flesh is juicy and crisp, with a sprightly zest (hence its name) that is sweetened with caramel sugars. It stores well for six-eight weeks, and is firm enough to please most bakers. Zestar! has an extended harvest time and requires a couple of pickings, making it a great apple for home orchardists.

Zestar! comes from the prolific breeding program at the University of Minnesota, whose other creations include Haralson, Snowsweet, Sweet 16, and Honeycrisp. It is a cross of State Fair and MN 1691 (Conell Red x Goodland), and it was released in 1999. Zestar!® is a trademark name; the cultivar is called Minnewashta.