Posof Elması (Posof Apple), known locally by its other name Badele Elması (Badele Apple), is a local apple variety specific to the Posof district of Ardahan province, characterized by its red color both inside and out. The name "Badele" comes from the old name of the village, now called Türkgözü, where this apple was first grown. The apple is especially grown in the savahil (riverside) villages of Posof, in regions where the microclimate effect is intensely felt.

Distinctive Characteristics

The most prominent feature of this apple variety is that it contains high amounts of anthocyanin in both the peel and the fruit flesh. In analyses conducted, 49.1 mg/100 g of anthocyanin was detected in the fruit peel and 35.9 mg/100 g in the fruit flesh. However, the anthocyanin substance is generally found only in the peel part of the apple. This feature makes the Posof Apple unique both scientifically and locally. Furthermore, its phenolic content, 578.7 mg/100 g in the peel and 112.2 mg/100 g in the fruit flesh, demonstrates the apple's high antioxidant capacity.

It is known that the anthocyanin substance, in addition to its antioxidant effects, helps lower blood sugar by supporting insulin production. In this respect, it is seen that the apple has given rise to a belief among the local people that it is good for diabetes.

^{Posof Apple (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Morphological Characteristics

Posof Elması / Badele Elması has a weight of 58.34 – 172.62 grams, a height of 4.5 – 7 cm, and a diameter range of 5 – 8.5 cm. It has a flatter appearance compared to other apple varieties. The calyx basin (çiçek çukuru) is almost flush with the surface and is not prominent. At full maturity, the fruit peel is dark red (wine red), the fruit flesh is completely red, and it has a sweet flavor profile. When less ripe, the outer peel is green-red, the fruit flesh is light red, and its taste is sourish (ekşimtırak). The red color distribution in the fruit is more intense in the peel and becomes a lighter tone towards the core (çekirdek).

Cultivation and Production Method

The production of Posof Elması continues with practices shaped by traditional knowledge. Wild apple and pear trees in the Posof district are used as rootstock, and grafting is done on these trees using the cleft (yarma) or inlay (kakma) method. The grafting process starts in mid-April and continues until mid-August. Yield can be obtained approximately one year after the grafting.

Animal manure is preferred in the soil cultivation process, and weeds are hoed throughout the season. Grafting scions (aşı kalemleri) are selected by experts, grafted onto suitable rootstock types at institutions like the Eğirdir Horticultural Research Institute, and the saplings are planted at 5x3 meter intervals. The harvest period corresponds to the end of August and the beginning of September. After harvest, the product is stored in a cold and humid environment to preserve its distinctive characteristics.

^{Apple Picking Process (Anadolu Ajansı)}

Inspection and Protection

Posof Elması / Badele Elması was registered on April 22, 2019, under the Industrial Property Law No. 6769 and taken under protection with a designation of origin (menşe adı). Inspection is carried out by a commission consisting of relevant public institutions and experts, under the coordination of the Ardahan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. The inspection processes cover the production, harvest, storage, and marketing stages.