Greek apples have taken first place in the 2026 global rankings by TasteAtlas, with apples from Zagora recognized as the best rated variety worldwide. The distinction reflects a combination of strict origin controls, mountain based cultivation, and decades of organized production that consistently deliver high quality fruit to international markets.
The ranking places Greek apples from Zagora, Pelion, ahead of well known premium varieties from the United States, Australia, Portugal, and Canada, confirming their growing global reputation among both consumers and food experts.
Greek Zagora Pelion apples and their protected origin
Zagora, Pelion apples carry Protected Designation of Origin status, which limits production to a defined zone in eastern Mount Pelion. Orchards operate specifically within the municipal areas of Zagora, Makrirrachi, and Pouri.
Growers cultivate trees on mountainous and semi mountainous slopes, generally between about 300 and over 700 meters in elevation, where local soil and climate conditions support slow, balanced fruit development.
Terraced orchards are widely used to adapt to steep terrain and to optimize drainage and sun exposure. These environmental factors contribute directly to the apples’ strong color, firm texture, and aromatic character.
Key variety and cultivation practices
A leading cultivated type in the region is Starking Delicious. This variety stands out for its intense red skin, thin peel, rounded shape, and juicy, fragrant flesh.
Farmers apply structured growing methods that combine traditional know how with controlled inputs.
Irrigation commonly uses repeated seasonal flooding cycles, while pruning and fertilization follow established regional practices, often supported by organic materials and natural soil management.
Producers also emphasize canopy ventilation and tree balance to protect fruit quality. Harvest runs mainly from September through October and is carried out largely by hand, allowing careful selection and minimal damage.
Beyond fresh consumption, these apples are widely used in juices, jams, and pastry production, while also offering solid nutritional value through vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
A Long Cooperative Tradition of Producing Greek Apples Since 1916
Apple cultivation in Zagora has shaped the local economy for more than a century. In the early 1900s, farmers increasingly focused on orchards as their main agricultural activity due to the area’s favorable microclimate.
The founding of the Zagora Agricultural Cooperative in 1916 marked a major organizational step, coordinating production and strengthening quality control and distribution.
The apples gained nationwide recognition over time, and official PDO certification followed in 1993. That designation formally linked product identity to geographic origin and production method, reinforcing brand trust in export markets.
Top 5 apples in the world according to TasteAtlas
According to the 2026 TasteAtlas rankings, the top five apples in the world are:
- Greek apples from Zagora Pelion
- Honeycrisp apples from Minnesota, United States
- Cripps Pink apples from Australia
- Maçã Bravo de Esmolfe from Portugal
- Ambrosia apples from Canada
This year’s results position Greek apples from Zagora, Pelion at the top of the global category and underline Greece’s growing presence in premium agricultural products.
