When it comes to apples, most of us think of the classic red or green ones we find in grocery stores.

But did you know there are over 7,500 apple varieties grown around the world? Each variety has its own unique taste, color, and texture.

Let's embark on a journey to discover some of the most remarkable apples from across the globe.

1. Fuji – Japan's Sweet Masterpiece

Originating in Japan, the Fuji apple is beloved for its sweet and juicy flavor. Developed in the 1930s by crossing the Red Delicious and Ralls Janet varieties, Fuji apples are now widely grown and enjoyed worldwide. Their crisp texture and high sugar content make them perfect for eating fresh, and they also add a delightful sweetness to baked goods. Fuji apples are larger than many other varieties, with a rosy skin that adds to their visual appeal. They've become a favorite not only in Japan but also in the United States and other countries.

2. Bramley – Britain's Baking Gem

For those who love a good apple pie, the Bramley apple from England is a top choice. Known for its tartness, the Bramley is an ideal cooking apple that mellows when baked, delivering a rich, full-bodied flavor. Its green skin and large size make it easy to identify, and the flesh becomes incredibly tender when cooked. While it might be too sharp to eat raw, Bramleys are unbeatable for making desserts, sauces, and savory dishes, which is why it's a staple in British kitchens.

3. Honeycrisp – America's Crunchy Favorite

Developed in the United States, the Honeycrisp apple has taken the world by storm for its unique texture and balanced sweetness. Honeycrisp apples are exceptionally crisp, with a juicy, honey-like flavor that appeals to both kids and adults. This variety was designed specifically to maintain its crunchiness, making it a refreshing snack on its own or a star ingredient in salads. The Honeycrisp's popularity has surged, and it's now grown in multiple countries to meet global demand.

4. Granny Smith – Australia's Tangy Green Marvel

The Granny Smith apple, with its distinctive green skin and tart flavor, originated in Australia in the 1860s. It's one of the most well-known apples globally, appreciated for its bright acidity and firm texture. Granny Smiths are excellent for both cooking and fresh eating, and they bring a zesty contrast when combined with sweeter apples in pies and sauces. Their long shelf life and resistance to browning make them perfect for salads, and they add a delightful crunch to many recipes.

5. Mutsu (Crispin) – Japan's Balanced Beauty

Also known as the Crispin, the Mutsu apple is another Japanese creation, a hybrid of the Golden Delicious and the Indo apple. Mutsu apples are large, often with a yellow-green skin that may blush red on one side. They offer a unique balance of sweet and tart flavors, with a dense, juicy texture. Mutsu apples are versatile – they're perfect for baking, but they also hold up well when eaten fresh, making them popular in both savory and sweet recipes.

6. Pink Lady – Australia's Pretty in Pink

The Pink Lady apple, also known as the Cripps Pink, is a bright, blush-colored apple with a hint of tartness. Developed in Australia in the 1970s, Pink Lady apples are known for their attractive pink skin and refreshing, crisp flavor. They have a pleasant balance of sweet and tart, with a slight effervescence when bitten into. Perfect for snacking, Pink Lady apples are also delicious in salads or even paired with cheese on a charcuterie board.

7. Winesap – America's Vintage Treasure

The Winesap apple has been cherished in the United States for centuries. With a rich, spicy flavor and deep red skin, Winesap apples have a complex taste that's perfect for cider-making, baking, and snacking. These apples have firm flesh and a distinctive tartness with a hint of wine-like aftertaste, which gives them their unique name. Winesaps have a long shelf life, making them a classic choice for farmers and apple enthusiasts alike.

8. Kiku – Italy's Sweet Surprise

The Kiku apple, discovered in Italy, is a naturally sweet mutation of the Fuji variety. It has a striking red color with a sweet, crisp flavor that has quickly earned its popularity worldwide. Kiku apples are incredibly juicy, and their sweetness makes them a perfect choice for fresh eating. They have gained a reputation for being some of the sweetest apples in the world, adding a burst of flavor to fruit salads and snacks.

9. Akane – Japan's Little Red Wonder

Another gem from Japan, the Akane apple is a small, red apple with a sharp, sweet-tart flavor. It's sometimes referred to as "Tokyo Rose" and is favored for its juicy and crisp texture. Akane apples are particularly delightful when eaten fresh, but they also make a delicious apple sauce. Their balanced flavor profile makes them a versatile addition to both sweet and savory recipes.

10. Golden Delicious – A Global Icon

Originating in West Virginia, the Golden Delicious apple is now grown and enjoyed worldwide. Its golden-yellow skin and mild sweetness make it a versatile option for all kinds of recipes. Golden Delicious apples have a thin skin and tender flesh, which works well in pies, tarts, and sauces. Known for their consistent sweetness, these apples add a subtle flavor to dishes without overpowering other ingredients.

Apples have a way of capturing the essence of their origin, with each variety offering its unique flavors and textures. From the tangy Granny Smith of Australia to Japan's sweet Fuji, these apples reveal just how diverse this fruit can be. Next time you're at the store, consider trying a new variety – you might discover a new favorite that transports you to a different corner of the world with every bite.