Description
Chantecler Apple Tree: The Perfect Balance Between Sweetness and Acidity
The Chantecler apple tree, also known as Belchard, is a French variety developed by INRA in the 1970s. Resulting from a cross between the Golden Delicious and the Reinette Clochard, this apple tree combines the best qualities of its parents: excellent storage and a refined flavour.
Characteristics of the fruit
The Chantecler apple is distinguished by its golden-yellow skin, often slightly tinged with pink. Its flesh is firm, juicy, with a remarkable balance between sweetness and acidity. This variety is ideal for both chewing and cooking, especially for tarte Tatin where it reveals its full potential thanks to its good resistance to cooking.
Growing conditions
The Chantecler apple tree is a hardy tree, adapted to cold climates and resistant to frost. It is relatively resistant to disease, although monitoring for scab is recommended. Flowering takes place in April, with a harvest that begins in October. Apples keep well until winter, although their texture may change slightly over time.
Planting and maintenance
The Chantecler can be grafted onto various rootstocks, which influences the final size of the tree. It is advisable to plant it in well-drained soil and maintain a weeded area around the trunk to promote good growth. Regular watering is necessary, especially in the first year of planting.
Culinary Use
In the kitchen, the Chantecler apple is versatile: it can be eaten raw for its refined taste or cooked in a variety of dishes. It is particularly popular for the preparation of pies, and in particular the famous tarte Tatin, where it retains its shape and distinct flavor. Its juicy, slightly tart flesh also makes it a great choice for compotes and baked apples.
Storage tips
Chantecler apples can be stored for several months in a cool, dry place. Over time, they may lose their firmness, but are still excellent for cooking. If they become too soft, they can be used for compotes or other cooked preparations.
Pollination
Chantecler requires the presence of other varieties of apple trees for good pollination, such as the Golden Delicious or the Reinette, which bloom at the same time.




