Frequin Rouge is an ancient cider apple from Normandy, France that has been popular since the 19th century. Like most heirloom varieties, it tends to biennialism and will need diligent pruning and thinning. There are many variants of the Frequin Rouge apple, including Frequin Rouge Petit and Frequin Rouge de la Guerche, and it is not clear which of these is the specific variety we have in North America. This mid-season apple has, however, performed very well in American cideries, as is clear from its continued popularity. Frequin Rouge is used exclusively for cider; this apple is not suitable for fresh eating.

From our friends at Eve's Cidery: "This apple has incredible concentrated smoky/leather/orchard floor aromas plus a firm tannic structure. Late to come into bearing, an extremely biennial tree, high vigor and small fruit makes this tree less than ideal for modern high density plantings on fertile soil. But in more challenging sites, Frequin Rouge excels developing unique creosote aroma and a deep sense of smokiness. One of our favorite bittersweets.

"In my orchard it is very disease resistant. We do have some varieties susceptible to canker, but Frequin Rouge is not one of them. I would consider it one of the most disease-resistant cider varieties we have. It may get fireblight, but no worse than say Golden Russet. The apple is bright to dark red all over." (From WSU: Tannin (percent tannic acid): 0.30; Acid (percent malic acid): 0.26; pH: 4.17; SG: 1.047; ^oBrix 11.4)