This tree is large, vigorous, cold hardy (to zone 4), and a heavy cropper, but nonetheless reliably annual. It is a triploid and two diploid pollenizers will need to be present for full fertility, but the tree has no other difficulties. It is mildly susceptible to scab but otherwise disease resistant.

One of the largest of the russets, this apple is bronze patched and streaked over a green background. It is a dense apple, but crunchy and aromatic. The flavor when harvested is intense and sweet-sharp, but it mellows in storage, developing a balanced sweetness that has the rich nuttiness we expect from a good russet. It will store well through the winter and it has found favor with some American cider makers for its aromatic qualities. From WSU: Tannin (percent tannic acid): 0.12; Acid (percent malic acid): 0.79; pH: 3.46; SG: 1.057; °Brix: 13.4.

Commonly thought to have arisen in Germany near the Zaber River in 1885, Reinette Zabergau remains a highly regarded dessert and baking apple in Germany. Try it in a strudel or German apple cake (Versunkener Apfelkuchen).