Juice Portrait: Rubinette

When two legends meet, something extraordinary sometimes emerges. The apple variety Rubinette, for example, with its noble roots and the character of a diva. It carries the best of two worlds within it: the elegance of Cox's Orange and the reliability of Golden Delicious. The result divides apple experts into two camps: some rave about 'the best apple in the world', while others find Rubinette complex and demanding. A Swiss Man with a Vision The story of Rubinette begins in 1964 in Rafz in northern Switzerland, where orchardist Walter Hauenstein worked long on his vision. Hauenstein wanted to create an improved version of Golden Delicious. An apple that combined its reliability with more character and aroma. It was not until 1982 that the variety was officially released and registered in Switzerland under the name 'Rafzubin' as a tribute to its place of origin. The international name Rubinette reflects what is obvious: the apricot-rose colouring that shimmers especially in the light. The Legacy of the Parents To understand Rubinette, you need to know its lineage. Cox's Orange is considered 'the benchmark for apple flavour' – a highly complex apple with hints of pear, melon and oranges, spicy and aromatic. Golden Delicious, on the other hand, brought sweetness, juiciness and above all growing stability. The aroma of Rubinette comes almost entirely from Cox's Orange, while the shape more closely resembles Golden Delicious. The result: a honey-intense flavour with a rich blend of sugar and acidity. Character of a Diva Rubinette is demanding, both in cultivation and in enjoyment. Remarkable is its adaptability to different climate zones without compromising fruit quality. In the glass, it reveals its true personality: the colour shifts between straw yellow and delicate rose tones, the bouquet unfolds layers of dried fruits, dates and apricots, underlaid with a subtle vanilla note. It is a juice that demands attention – and deserves it. More Than Just Flavour What sets Rubinette apart from others is its complexity. While other apple juices contain clear, straightforward flavours, Rubinette speaks of diversity and the art of forging a new character from two. This multi-layered quality makes it the ideal partner for sophisticated culinary pairings. It does not harmonise with everything. But when it fits, the result is extraordinary. More on the art of food pairing with the example of Rubinette in a dedicated blog post. A Juice for Connoisseurs Rubinette is not an everyday juice, but a discovery for those who want more. It is proof that from careful breeding, time and dedication, something can emerge that is greater than the sum of its parts. Once you understand why Rubinette is so special, you also understand why some consider it the best apple in the world. It is not just the taste; it is the story that resonates in every sip.