SELAH, Wash., Feb. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Rainier Fruit Company, one of the largest growers of fresh apples in the United States, has begun shipping its largest crop yet of the Lady Alice apple. Production of this apple has increased every year since its introduction just three years ago, as its appeal with consumers has taken off.  Lady Alice apples are available in a greater number of select grocery stores across the country from February through May, while supplies last. The unique Lady Alice variety is like a fine wine – it gets richer with age. The variety is characterized by its pinkish-red stripes over a creamy yellow background and sweet, crisp, dense flesh with a hint of tartness.

The versatile Lady Alice apple is an excellent choice for snacking, baking and cooking. Unlike many apple varieties, the Lady Alice is slow to brown when cut – making it perfect for salads and fruit trays. The Lady Alice can also be used in a variety of cooking and baking recipes. Its heirloom-like flesh helps it retain its texture when heated at high temperatures.

"The Lady Alice apple is a welcome addition for consumers who love apples and are looking for something new in the late winter and spring.  Its delicious sweet bite offers a hint of tartness that lingers on the palate," Rainier spokesperson, Suzanne Wolter says. "New varieties like Lady Alice offer unique flavor profiles adding to the diverse spectrum of apples we currently grow."

The Lady Alice apple contributes to a healthy lifestyle and complements a variety of recipes. According to the USDA, apples are among the top 20 foods with the highest antioxidant content per serving. Rich in antioxidants, apples can help boost weight loss and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. For delicious and healthy recipe ideas including: Lady Alice apple squash soup, roasted halibut with apple chutney, curried chicken salad with apples and almonds, visit: www.rainierfruit.com.

History of the Lady Alice

The Lady Alice variety was named after the company founder's mother, Alice, who was instrumental in the successful growth of Rainier Fruit. It was discovered by chance on a farm near Gleed, Washington in 1978; the result of a grower accidentally cutting an apple tree with his farm equipment. Over the next 25 years, steps were taken to preserve and propagate the chance seedling's distinctive characteristics.

Exclusively sold by Rainier Fruit Company, Lady Alice is available at select locations throughout the U.S. Consumers can find a store nearest them by accessing the Lady Alice Store Locator: www.rainierfruit.com.

About Rainier Fruit Company

Rainier Fruit Company is one of the largest growers of fresh apples, pears, cherries and blueberries in the United States. For more than 100 years, Rainier Fruit Company has been growing premium Northwest fruit that consistently appeals to consumers. For additional information about Rainier Fruit Company and the Lady Alice apple visit: www.RainierFruit.com/ladyalice.

SOURCE Rainier Fruit Company