Heirloom Mortgage Lifter Tomato Seeds

The Legacy of the Mortgage Lifter Tomato: A Garden Icon

In the vast and varied world of heirloom tomatoes, few varieties command as much reverence and fascination as the Mortgage Lifter. More than just a fruit, it represents a captivating narrative of ingenuity, perseverance, and the timeless human desire for self-sufficiency. This remarkable tomato, a true American legend, has earned its place in countless gardens not only for its exceptional flavor and impressive size but also for the inspiring story behind its creation. Unlike many modern hybrid tomatoes bred for uniform appearance, disease resistance, or shelf life, the Mortgage Lifter stands as a testament to the values of taste, history, and genetic diversity that define the heirloom movement. Its deep roots in gardening folklore make it a perennial favorite, inviting both seasoned cultivators and novice enthusiasts to participate in its ongoing legacy. Understanding the Mortgage Lifter means appreciating not just its horticultural attributes, but the unique cultural fabric it weaves into the tapestry of edible gardening.

The allure of the Mortgage Lifter extends beyond its robust growth and generous yield. It is an invitation to connect with a piece of agricultural history, to cultivate a variety developed with passion and purpose. Gardeners who choose to grow this heirloom are often drawn to its authentic, old-fashioned tomato flavor, a characteristic frequently cited as superior to that of many commercially available alternatives. Its substantial fruit, often weighing over a pound, offers a magnificent presence in the garden and on the plate, making it an ideal choice for slicing, sauces, and fresh eating. This article delves into the comprehensive aspects of the Mortgage Lifter tomato, from its incredible origins and distinctive characteristics to detailed cultivation practices, culinary uses, and the methods for preserving its genetic heritage through seed saving. It aims to provide a professional and practical guide for anyone interested in experiencing the rewarding journey of growing this celebrated heirloom.

The Storied Origin: M.C. “Radiator Charlie” Byles’ Ingenious Creation

The compelling saga of the Mortgage Lifter tomato begins not in a sophisticated agricultural research facility, but in the humble backyard of a determined mechanic in Logan, West Virginia. M.C. Byles, affectionately known as “Radiator Charlie,” was a man of the land and a self-taught horticulturist with a singular goal: to develop a superior tomato variety that could help him overcome financial hardship during the Great Depression. Byles, who had no formal education past the fourth grade, was a testament to the power of practical knowledge and relentless experimentation. He operated a radiator repair shop at the base of a mountain, and his mechanical skills were matched only by his green thumb. His ambition was to cross-breed the best existing tomato varieties to create a plant that produced exceptionally large, flavorful, and reliable fruit, which he could then sell to clear his mortgage.

Radiator Charlie’s method was remarkably simple yet profoundly effective. He began by planting four of the largest, best-tasting tomato varieties he could find at the time: a German Johnson, a Beefsteak, an Italian variety, and an English variety. His innovative approach involved cross-pollinating these plants by carefully transferring pollen using a baby’s ear syringe. He selected the best offspring from each generation, patiently crossing them over six years, constantly seeking to combine the most desirable traits – size, flavor, and vigor. He focused particularly on a successful cross between the German Johnson and Beefsteak, which formed the primary genetic backbone of his eventual success. The resulting plant, which he developed around the 1930s or early 1940s, consistently produced enormous, pinkish-red beefsteak tomatoes that weighed an average of one to two pounds, with some specimens reaching three or even four pounds.

The success of Radiator Charlie’s tomato was immediate and widespread. He began selling his robust plants for a dollar each, a considerable sum during that era, and word quickly spread among local farmers and gardeners about his remarkable “Mortgage Lifter” tomatoes. People would travel hundreds of miles to purchase his seedlings, and Charlie reportedly paid off his $6,000 mortgage within six years solely from the sales of his tomato plants. His story became a powerful symbol of resilience and self-reliance, transforming a simple garden project into an agricultural legend. The Mortgage Lifter tomato thus became inextricably linked to its creator’s triumph, a living testament to the idea that perseverance, combined with a little ingenuity, can indeed lift financial burdens and leave a lasting legacy in the hearts and gardens of many.

Distinctive Characteristics and Cultivation Advantages

The Mortgage Lifter tomato (Solanum lycopersicum ‘Mortgage Lifter’) is renowned for a suite of characteristics that set it apart and contribute to its enduring popularity among gardeners. Understanding these features is crucial for successful cultivation and appreciation of this heirloom variety. Primarily, it is classified as an indeterminate tomato, meaning its vines will continue to grow, flower, and produce fruit throughout the entire growing season until frost. This growth habit necessitates robust staking or caging to support the heavy fruit load and extensive foliage, making it a commitment for the gardener but rewarding with continuous harvests.

The fruit itself is the star attraction. Mortgage Lifter tomatoes are classic beefsteak types, typically large to very large, often weighing between one and two pounds, with some exceptional specimens reaching three pounds or more. Their shape is generally oblate, or somewhat flattened, and often irregularly ribbed, a common characteristic among many large heirloom varieties. The skin is thin, and the color is a rich, rosy-pink, sometimes described as deep red with pink undertones. Internally, the flesh is dense, meaty, and relatively low in seeds, making it ideal for slicing. This meaty texture contributes significantly to its culinary versatility.

Flavor is arguably the most celebrated attribute of the Mortgage Lifter. It offers a perfectly balanced taste profile: a rich, sweet flavor harmoniously blended with a mild acidity, devoid of the sharp tang sometimes found in other varieties. This balance results in a complex, old-fashioned tomato taste that many connoisseurs find superior to modern hybrids. The juicy yet firm flesh contributes to a satisfying mouthfeel, making it a premium choice for fresh consumption. Beyond flavor, the plant itself is known for its vigor and relatively good disease resistance compared to some other heirloom varieties. While no tomato is entirely immune, Mortgage Lifter often shows a commendable tolerance to common tomato ailments, a trait carefully bred into it by Radiator Charlie. This combination of impressive fruit size, exquisite flavor, indeterminate productivity, and reasonable plant health ensures the Mortgage Lifter remains a highly valued and productive addition to any home garden.

Cultivation Guide: From Seed to Harvest

Cultivating Mortgage Lifter tomatoes, like all indeterminate heirloom varieties, requires attention to detail but offers immense rewards. Success begins with understanding their specific needs from the very start.

Seed Starting and Initial Growth

• Timing: Start seeds indoors approximately 6-8 weeks before your average last frost date. Tomatoes are warm-season crops and cannot tolerate frost.
• Media: Use a high-quality, sterile seed-starting mix. Fill trays or pots, lightly compact, and moisten thoroughly.
• Sowing: Plant seeds about ¼ inch deep. Cover lightly with mix and gently water.
• Temperature & Light: Maintain a consistent soil temperature of 75-85°F (24-29°C) for optimal germination. Use a heating mat if necessary. Once germinated, provide strong light for 14-16 hours daily using grow lights to prevent leggy seedlings. Keep ambient air temperature around 65-70°F (18-21°C).
• Transplanting Seedlings: When seedlings develop their first set of true leaves, carefully transplant them into larger pots (3-4 inches) to allow for further root development. Plant them deeper than they were in the seed tray, up to the first set of true leaves, to encourage a stronger root system.

Hardening Off and Transplanting Outdoors

• Hardening Off: About 7-10 days before transplanting outdoors, begin the hardening-off process. Gradually expose seedlings to outdoor conditions – dappled sunlight, cooler temperatures, and gentle breezes – for increasing durations each day. This toughens them for the garden environment.
• Soil Preparation: Choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Mortgage Lifter thrives in rich, well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.8. Amend heavy clay or sandy soils with ample organic matter like compost or aged manure.
• Planting: Transplant seedlings into the garden after all danger of frost has passed and night temperatures consistently stay above 50°F (10°C). Space plants 3-4 feet apart in rows to allow for their vigorous growth. Plant deeply, burying a significant portion of the stem (up to two-thirds) to promote extensive root growth along the buried stem.

Ongoing Care and Maintenance

• Watering: Consistent and deep watering is critical, especially once fruits begin to set. Aim for 1-1.5 inches of water per week, either from rain or irrigation. Avoid overhead watering, which can encourage fungal diseases. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal. Inconsistent watering can lead to blossom end rot and fruit cracking.
• Fertilizing: Tomatoes are heavy feeders. Incorporate a balanced slow-release fertilizer or compost into the soil at planting. Once fruits begin to form, switch to a fertilizer higher in phosphorus and potassium to encourage fruiting, rather than excessive foliage growth. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage but fewer fruits.
• Support: As indeterminate varieties, Mortgage Lifters require strong support. Install sturdy stakes, cages, or trellises at the time of planting to avoid disturbing roots later. Regularly tie the main stem to the support as the plant grows.
• Pruning: Pruning is beneficial for indeterminate tomatoes. Remove “suckers” (shoots that emerge in the crotch between the main stem and a leaf branch) to direct the plant’s energy into fruit production and improve air circulation. Some gardeners choose to prune heavily for larger, earlier fruits, while others prune minimally for a larger overall yield of slightly smaller fruits.
• Pest and Disease Management: Monitor plants regularly for signs of pests (e.g., hornworms, aphids) or diseases (e.g., early blight, late blight, fusarium wilt). Practice crop rotation, ensure good air circulation, and remove affected foliage promptly. Organic pest control methods include hand-picking, neem oil, or insecticidal soaps.

Harvesting

• Ripeness: Mortgage Lifter tomatoes are ready for harvest when they develop their full rosy-pink color, feel firm but yield slightly to gentle pressure, and easily detach from the vine.
• Technique: Gently twist or snip the fruit from the vine, leaving a small piece of the stem attached if desired, as this can slightly extend shelf life.
• Yield: Expect a continuous harvest from mid-summer until the first frost.

Flavor Profile and Culinary Applications

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is not merely a visually impressive fruit; its flavor profile is widely celebrated as one of the best in the heirloom tomato kingdom. It embodies the quintessential “old-fashioned” tomato taste that many gardeners seek, a stark contrast to the often bland, uniform produce found in commercial grocery stores. The taste is characterized by a remarkable balance of sweetness and a mild, tangy acidity, creating a complex and satisfying palate. Its flesh is dense and meaty, with a low seed count and a rich, juicy texture that melts in the mouth. This combination of balanced flavor and substantial texture makes it exceptionally versatile in the kitchen.

Culinary Uses

• Fresh Slicing: This is arguably the most common and revered use for Mortgage Lifter tomatoes. Their large size, meaty flesh, and exquisite flavor make them perfect for thick slices on sandwiches, particularly BLTs (bacon, lettuce, and tomato), or as a standalone side dish seasoned simply with salt and pepper. The slices hold their shape beautifully and add a burst of vibrant flavor to any sandwich or burger.
• Salads: Diced or sliced, Mortgage Lifters elevate any salad. Their robust flavor stands up well to other strong ingredients, and their juiciness adds a delightful moistness. They are exceptional in a classic Caprese salad, paired with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze, where their inherent quality can truly shine.
• Salsas and Bruschetta: While not typically used for highly acidic, long-term canning of purees due to their lower acidity, the meaty texture of Mortgage Lifters makes them superb for fresh salsas and bruschetta toppings. Their sweetness complements the heat of chili peppers and the sharpness of onions and garlic, creating vibrant, flavorful condiments.
• Sauces and Soups: For fresh, uncooked or lightly cooked sauces, Mortgage Lifters are an excellent choice. Their low seed content means less work in preparation, and their rich flavor forms a superb base for chunky pasta sauces or fresh tomato soups. They contribute a hearty body and a complex sweetness that elevates the final dish. When making cooked sauces, be aware that their lower acidity might require the addition of a touch of lemon juice or vinegar for balance and for canning safety if processed for long-term storage.
• Roasting: Roasting Mortgage Lifter tomatoes intensifies their natural sweetness and deepens their flavor. Halved or quartered, tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, and roasted until caramelized, they make a delicious side dish, a topping for pizzas or flatbreads, or an addition to pasta dishes.
• Gazpacho and Fresh Juices: The high water content and exceptional flavor make Mortgage Lifters a prime candidate for fresh gazpacho or a vibrant, nutritious tomato juice. These applications allow the unadulterated taste of the tomato to be the star.

In every culinary application, the Mortgage Lifter tomato delivers a superior experience, reminding us why heirloom varieties are cherished. Its adaptability and distinct flavor profile ensure it remains a culinary delight for gardeners and gourmands alike.

Saving Mortgage Lifter Seeds: Preserving the Legacy

One of the most profound aspects of growing heirloom varieties like the Mortgage Lifter is the ability to save their seeds, thereby ensuring the continuation of their genetic lineage and preserving their unique characteristics for future generations. Unlike hybrid seeds, which often produce offspring that do not resemble the parent plant (a phenomenon known as “f2 generation”), open-pollinated heirlooms like the Mortgage Lifter breed true from seed, meaning the plants grown from saved seeds will be identical to their parent. This practice empowers gardeners to become custodians of biodiversity and participate directly in the heirloom movement.

The Importance of Seed Saving

• Genetic Preservation: Saving Mortgage Lifter seeds helps maintain the genetic diversity that is crucial for a resilient food system. Each heirloom variety carries unique traits that could be vital in adapting to changing climates or new diseases.
• Self-Sufficiency: It reduces reliance on commercial seed suppliers, allowing gardeners to become more self-sufficient and economical in their gardening endeavors.
• Historical Connection: Continuing the tradition of seed saving connects current gardeners to the past, to figures like Radiator Charlie, and to the generations of farmers and gardeners who carefully selected and preserved these varieties.
• Adaptation: Over time, seeds saved from plants grown in your specific climate may gradually adapt, potentially becoming more resilient and productive in your local conditions.

Steps for Saving Mortgage Lifter Seeds

The process of saving tomato seeds typically involves fermentation, which helps separate the seeds from their gel sacs and pulp, removes disease-carrying pathogens, and improves germination rates.

1. Select the Best Fruit: Choose ripe, healthy, disease-free Mortgage Lifter tomatoes from your most vigorous and productive plants. Avoid fruits that show any signs of disease, cracking, or pest damage, as these traits could be passed on.
2. Extract the Seeds: Cut the chosen tomatoes in half horizontally. Gently squeeze or scoop out the seeds and the surrounding gel and pulp into a clean, non-metallic container (e.g., a glass jar or plastic cup). Do not add water initially.
3. Fermentation: Cover the container loosely (to allow air exchange but prevent pests) and place it in a warm location (around 65-75°F / 18-24°C) out of direct sunlight. Allow the mixture to ferment for 2-5 days. During this time, a layer of mold may form on top, and the seeds will separate from the pulp and sink to the bottom. Stir the mixture once or twice daily. The fermentation process breaks down the germination-inhibiting gel around each seed.
4. Rinsing and Cleaning: Once the seeds have settled and a thin layer of mold or scum has formed on top, carefully pour off the moldy liquid and pulp. Add clean water to the jar, stir, and let the viable seeds sink. Pour off the cloudy water and any remaining floating pulp. Repeat this rinsing process several times until the water is relatively clear and only clean seeds remain at the bottom.
5. Drying: Drain the clean seeds in a fine-mesh sieve. Spread the seeds in a single layer on a non-stick surface, such as a ceramic plate, a glass pane, or parchment paper. Avoid paper towels, as the seeds may stick. Place the seeds in a warm, dry area with good air circulation, away from direct sunlight, for 1-3 weeks. Ensure they are completely dry to the touch and easily separate from each other before storage. Any residual moisture can lead to mold or spoilage.
6. Storage: Store thoroughly dried seeds in airtight containers (e.g., small glass jars or sealed plastic bags) in a cool, dark, and dry place. A refrigerator or freezer can extend viability significantly. Label containers clearly with the variety name (Mortgage Lifter) and the date of harvest. Properly stored tomato seeds can remain viable for 4-6 years, sometimes longer.

By following these steps, you not only ensure a supply of premium Mortgage Lifter seeds for your own garden but also actively participate in the vital work of preserving this cherished heirloom for the collective gardening community.

Common Challenges and Troubleshooting for Mortgage Lifter Tomatoes

While the Mortgage Lifter tomato is celebrated for its vigor and relatively good disease tolerance among heirlooms, like all tomato varieties, it can encounter specific challenges during the growing season. Proactive identification and management of these issues are key to ensuring a bountiful harvest.

Nutritional Deficiencies and Physiological Disorders

• Blossom End Rot (BER): This common issue appears as a dark, leathery spot on the bottom (blossom end) of the fruit. It’s not a disease but a calcium deficiency in the fruit, often caused by inconsistent watering, extreme fluctuations in soil moisture, or root damage, which hinders calcium uptake.
  • Troubleshooting: Ensure consistent, deep watering. Amend soil with compost to improve water retention. Avoid damaging roots during cultivation. Maintaining proper soil pH (6.0-6.8) also aids calcium absorption. Foliar sprays of calcium can offer temporary relief but addressing soil moisture is paramount.
• Fruit Cracking: Often seen as concentric or radial cracks on ripening fruit, cracking is usually a result of sudden increases in water uptake after a dry spell, causing the fruit to expand faster than the skin can accommodate.
  • Troubleshooting: Maintain consistent soil moisture through regular watering, especially during dry periods. Mulching around plants helps regulate soil temperature and moisture. Harvest fruit slightly earlier if heavy rain is expected.
• Sunscald: Yellow or white, often leathery patches on the sides of fruits exposed to direct, intense sunlight.
  • Troubleshooting: Ensure plants have adequate foliage to shade ripening fruits. Avoid excessive pruning of leaves, particularly on the sunny side of the plant.

Pests

• Tomato Hornworms: Large, green caterpillars with a horn-like protrusion on their rear. They can defoliate plants rapidly.
  • Troubleshooting: Hand-pick and destroy. Look for signs of damage (chewed leaves, black droppings) daily. Natural predators like parasitic wasps (identified by white cocoons on the hornworm’s back) can help control populations; avoid destroying parasitized worms. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is an organic spray option.
• Aphids: Small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth, sucking plant sap and potentially transmitting viruses.
  • Troubleshooting: Blast off with a strong stream of water. Introduce beneficial insects like ladybugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for severe infestations.
• Whiteflies and Spider Mites: Tiny pests that can cause yellowing and stippling of leaves, especially on the undersides.
  • Troubleshooting: Increase air circulation. Use insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils. Strong water sprays can dislodge them.

Fungal and Bacterial Diseases

• Early Blight (Alternaria solani): Causes dark, concentric spots with yellow halos, primarily on lower leaves, stems, and sometimes fruit.
  • Troubleshooting: Remove and destroy infected leaves immediately. Improve air circulation through proper spacing and pruning. Avoid overhead watering. Apply organic fungicides if severe, or consider resistant varieties (though ‘Mortgage Lifter’ is generally robust, it’s not immune).
• Late Blight (Phytophthora infestans): A rapidly spreading disease causing large, irregular, water-soaked spots on leaves and stems, often leading to total plant collapse.
  • Troubleshooting: This is a serious disease. Remove and destroy infected plants immediately. Practice strict sanitation and crop rotation. Use preventative copper or organic fungicides if late blight is a known problem in your area.
• Fusarium Wilt / Verticillium Wilt: Soil-borne fungal diseases that cause yellowing and wilting of leaves, often on one side of the plant, eventually leading to plant death.
  • Troubleshooting: No cure once infected. Prevention is key: use disease-free soil, practice strict crop rotation (avoid planting tomatoes or related crops in the same spot for at least 3-5 years), and maintain good garden hygiene. Choose resistant varieties where available, but ‘Mortgage Lifter’ typically has moderate resistance.

Consistent monitoring, good garden hygiene, and a proactive approach to potential issues are the most effective strategies for maintaining healthy, productive Mortgage Lifter tomato plants.

The Enduring Appeal of Heirloom Tomatoes

The resurgence of interest in heirloom tomatoes, with the Mortgage Lifter standing as a prime example, reflects a broader movement towards sustainable agriculture, genetic diversity, and a renewed appreciation for authentic flavors. The term “heirloom” itself conjures images of heritage, tradition, and a direct link to the gardening practices of past generations. But what precisely defines an heirloom, and why do they hold such a powerful and enduring appeal for contemporary gardeners?

Defining an Heirloom Tomato

An heirloom tomato is generally understood to be an open-pollinated variety that has been passed down through generations, typically for at least 50 years, or sometimes even more. “Open-pollinated” means that the seeds saved from an heirloom fruit will produce plants true to the parent, unlike hybrid varieties which are created by crossing two distinct parent lines and whose seeds will not reliably reproduce the desired traits. Heirloom varieties are often cherished for specific qualities such as unique flavors, unusual colors, interesting shapes, or historical significance. They are living pieces of agricultural history, each with a story that often extends back decades or even centuries.

Why Gardeners Choose Heirlooms Over Hybrids

• Superior Flavor: This is arguably the primary driver for heirloom popularity. Many gardeners find that heirloom tomatoes possess a depth and complexity of flavor that is often absent in commercially grown hybrid varieties, which are frequently bred for attributes like uniform size, firm skin, disease resistance, and extended shelf life, sometimes at the expense of taste. The Mortgage Lifter perfectly exemplifies this, with its renowned balanced sweetness and mild acidity.
• Genetic Diversity: The vast array of heirloom varieties represents a critical reservoir of genetic diversity. Relying on a small number of hybrid varieties makes our food system vulnerable to new pests or diseases. Heirlooms offer a wide spectrum of traits, contributing to a more resilient and adaptable agricultural landscape.
• Unique Aesthetics: Heirloom tomatoes come in an astonishing range of colors – from striped green to deep purple, vibrant orange to multi-colored, and the rosy pink of the Mortgage Lifter. They also exhibit diverse shapes and sizes, from small cherries to massive beefsteaks. This visual diversity adds significant appeal to the garden and the dinner plate.
• Connection to History and Story: As seen with Radiator Charlie’s Mortgage Lifter, many heirlooms come with captivating origin stories. Growing them offers a tangible connection to gardening traditions and the individuals who meticulously selected and nurtured these varieties over time. It’s a way to participate in a living history.
• Seed Saving Capability: The ability to save seeds from heirlooms and have them grow true to type empowers gardeners, fostering self-sufficiency and allowing them to adapt varieties to their specific growing conditions over successive generations.
• Environmental Considerations: Promoting genetic diversity through heirlooms supports a more sustainable food system. It encourages local food production and reduces the industrial agricultural footprint.

The Mortgage Lifter embodies all these aspects of heirloom appeal. Its rich history, magnificent fruit, and unparalleled flavor make it a standard-bearer for the heirloom movement. It represents a choice for quality, history, and a more flavorful gardening experience, affirming its place as a beloved and enduring garden staple.

Conclusion: A Garden Staple and a Story to Tell

The Mortgage Lifter tomato is far more than just a fruit; it is a symbol of horticultural ingenuity, personal resilience, and the enduring power of a good story. From its humble origins in the backyard of M.C. “Radiator Charlie” Byles, a self-taught mechanic with a vision, this remarkable heirloom variety has grown to become one of the most celebrated and sought-after tomatoes in the gardening world. Its journey from a means of financial liberation to a cherished garden staple is a testament to the fact that exceptional quality and a captivating narrative can truly stand the test of time.

Throughout this comprehensive exploration, we have delved into the distinctive characteristics that make the Mortgage Lifter so appealing: its impressive size, weighing often a pound or more; its luscious, rosy-pink hue; and, most importantly, its exquisite, perfectly balanced flavor profile that captures the essence of an old-fashioned tomato. We’ve examined the meticulous steps involved in its cultivation, from the careful initiation of seeds indoors to the consistent care required for its indeterminate vines, culminating in abundant harvests. Furthermore, the culinary versatility of the Mortgage Lifter was highlighted, showcasing its superior performance in everything from fresh slices on sandwiches to rich, chunky sauces. The crucial practice of seed saving underscores the heirloom’s significance, allowing gardeners to actively participate in the preservation of its genetic legacy.

Despite potential challenges inherent in growing any tomato, the rewards of cultivating Mortgage Lifter tomatoes far outweigh the efforts. Addressing common issues such as blossom end rot or pest infestations with proactive management ensures that this vigorous plant can reach its full potential. The enduring appeal of heirloom tomatoes, exemplified by the Mortgage Lifter, lies in their unparalleled flavor, their contribution to genetic diversity, and the profound connection they offer to history and tradition. Growing this tomato is not just about producing food; it is about embracing a piece of living heritage, experiencing the true taste of a garden classic, and sharing a remarkable story with every succulent bite. The Mortgage Lifter tomato unequivocally remains a magnificent choice for any gardener seeking a taste of history and an abundance of truly exceptional fruit.