I've never found a better pie apple than Haralsons, which are grown mainly in the midwest. My brother brings them when he comes from Minnesota. I accept that tastes are different, but I have never understood the popularity of Granny Smiths. Julia Child sometimes called for them, and I think less of her for it! King David, a hard-to-find variety sometimes available here in Massachusetts, also makes an excellent pie. If I have to, I will use Cortlands or Ida Reds, but they are not as good as Haralsons. Adding lemon juice or a bit of quince or pear can help with sub-par apples, of course.

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