CommunicationPublished on 23 September 2026

Updated Varietal Profiles for Swiss Cider Apples

Agroscope has revised the publication Beschreibung wertvoller Mostapfelsorte (Description of useful cider apple varieties). As well as adding four varieties to the list, the information about cultivation and juice quality has also been updated. Robust varieties for Swiss production are the primary focus.

Fuit drinks produced in Switzerland are very popular with consumers. Agroscope has extensively revised and updated the publication Beschreibung wertvoller Mostapfelsorte (Description of useful cider apple varieties) to help producers select suitable varieties.

Four worthwhile varieties added to the list

The most important change in the current edition is that the varieties Witta, Wisper, Wally and Wehntaler Hagapfel are now included for the first time. All four have attractive characteristics for cider apple production. Wally is known for early cropping, consistent yields and high resistance to scab, powdery mildew and fire blight. Its acidic juice makes it a very good blending partner. Wisper combines robust tree characteristics with good yield, pressing capabilities and a balanced juice. Witta produces consistent yields, has a robust, stable crown and is suitable as the sweet component in a blend. Wehntaler Hagapfel stood out in terms of its robustness compared with Marssonina and its suitability for growing as a full standard.

Updated varietal profiles improve comparability

The varietal profiles have been completed redesigned. The characteristics of each variety are now compared with the average for all cider apple varieties described. In addition, each varietal profile contains a summary of the pros and cons and an assessment of the variety’s suitability for cultivation in different production systems.

Juice data now available digitally

The way pressing and tasting tests are presented has also changed. The previous table containing analysis and tasting data for single-variety juices has been replaced by an interactive online database. This makes it possible to easily search and download the results of processing trials from as far back as 2008.

The online database and factsheets make it easier to compare different cider apple varieties. They provide key information on juice quality, yield, disease resistance and cultivation properties for production, processing and advisory purposes.