This week, we introduce you to an heirloom apple expert in North Carolina, preview the Apple Harvest Festival in Virginia, then cut to the core of apple pie variations throughout America’s history.
Speaking of apple-themed recipes, we shared our very own Spiced Apple Bourbon cocktail recipe with paid subscribers last week. If you tried it, let us know what you think by posting a comment.
Finding and Resurrecting Heirloom Apples
Meet Tom Brown, a man with a unique mission
Interview by Kurt Dusterberg
Photos courtesy of Tom Brown
In 1999, while working as a research engineer at R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Tom Brown and his wife made their usual Saturday visit to the local farmers market in Clemmons, North Carolina. Brown happened upon a man selling a variety of heirloom apples.
“And I was just totally fascinated by all the colors and taste and interesting names of the apples,” Brown says.
Ever since, Brown has been on a mission, one that has consumed his retirement. He spends most of his days in search of heirloom (or “heritage”) apples—varieties that were cultivated and grown in the past century. Some are extinct, while others have whereabouts unknown.
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Apple Harvest Festival at Albemarle CiderWorks
North Garden, Virginia
November 7, 2026
This weekend, celebrate apple season at the Apple Harvest Festival in Virginia’s foothills. Located at Albemarle Ciderworks in North Garden, Virginia, the festival is hosted by Vintage Virginia Apples and the Cove Garden Ruritan Club. Taste fresh apples, sparkling ciders, Brunswick stew, and apple butter; and enjoy artisan vendors, live music, and hayrides. You can also watch a cider pressing demo and learn how to make the perfect apple pie crust.
Speaking of America’s favorite dessert, the festival’s annual apple pie contest focuses on a traditional recipe this year: crust on the top and bottom with apples inside. To enter, email your recipe to Events@AlbemarleCiderWorks.com. The first prize winner will receive a $100 gift certificate from Vintage Virginia Apples and Albemarle Ciderworks.
