Dick's Driftless Apples

Dick's Driftless (formerly Dick's Delicious) is a unique, local orchard foundling (1970's) by Dick Gainor, who ran the nursery at Frank's Orchard on the ridge of Gays Mills, WI. Dick had given Bill Meyer a stock of the trees, but unfortunately Dick passed away before telling him the parentage. Bill always likened it to a mild, sweet flavor, like a Red Delicious. 

A 1913 Orchard favorite, the Dick's Driftless apple is known for its firm texture, balanced sweetness, and old-fashioned flavor. Its rich red skin and crisp bite make it excellent for fresh eating, while the natural sugar balance means it needs no added sweetener when baked or dried.

This heritage variety holds up beautifully in the oven, producing smooth-textured pies and crisps with a clean apple flavor that isn’t overly sweet. It’s also one of the best choices for unsweetened apple chips or homemade sauce.

Flavor & Texture: Mildly sweet, firm, and aromatic.
Best For: Eating fresh, baking, and drying.
Color: Deep red with light striping.
Availability: Early September.