A grape-flavored apple? No, thanks.

I love apples, and  a few weeks ago I started noticing something called a Grapple (pronounced grape-el) in the grocery store. They come in a four-pack and are found in the produce section near the apples. I ignored them, but then I got curious as to what it was. It's an apple that is naturally and artificially flavored to taste like a grape.

 The product or a variation of it has been around since 2005. I am not sure if it has just recently made it to New England or if it's been around a while. The process of creating a Grapple involves using Gala and Fuji apples and soaking them in a solution of grape flavoring, then the apples sit in storage for a while to allow the flavoring to infuse throughout the apple.

The flavoring comes from natural and artificial sources. According to the company's Web site, "Our main flavor ingredient is the same synthesized grape flavoring agent used in 100’s of other retail food items."

The thought of a grape-flavored apple just doesn't appeal to me. If I want a grape, I'll eat the grape and get the benefit from eating the grape skin. The same with apples. There are so many different apple varieties that you are bound to find one that you love. My favorites include Cameo, Honeycrisp and Macoun (usually only available in the fall). My least favorite, in case you're wondering, is Red Delicious.

If you've never been adventurous and tried different varieties of apples, invite some friends over. Have each guest bring one or two different varieties of apples. Sample them all and you're bound to find a new favorite, especially in the fall.