Barlow Jap Reviews 2011

The reviews for PaPaw's tomato are starting to roll in. Each year, "Camochef" plants over 100 tomato plants of many many varieties, then keeps the internet-based tomato freaks entertained with his vivid descriptions of his tasting experience as he rates his varieties in order of preference. Last year the Jap tomatoes finished #6 in his ratings which was quite an honor. So far this year it is #2, but the fun and tasting has just begun!

Camo's 2010 Taste Test-Barlow Jap
This Pink Oblate tomato was one of the first to show green tomatoes on the plant and plenty of them. They are ranging from about 9 oz. to 12oz. so far but many out there that look larger. Once you slice into this tomato, the first thing you notice is how meaty it is. This is a solid tomato without many seeds. It has a thin skin and a small core, both good characteristics in my book. Still it is reasonably juicy. The first bite reveals the somewhat sweet taste that is quite refreshing to a person like myself. This tomato tastes very good without adding a thing to it, but a little sea salt improves its flavor even more. Grabbing the bear and adding some Zatarains, I found myself almost overwhelmed by the wonderful flavor. The texture is perfect, the taste unbeatable by almost all others so far. It doesn't have that winey taste that DDR has but it's very close to being the perfect tomato. I think it would be a wonderful tomato in sauces, but this was gone much to soon. It's going ahead of the Tarasenko6 in taste, slipping right behind the DDR, for now. This finished the year last year in the #6 position, it's at #2 right now. This is another highly recommended tomato, especially if you favor a slightly sweet taste. Would be great in salads, on sandwiches, or just eating out of your hand with juices running down your chin! Many will recall this being "Too Many Tomatoes" Grandfather's tomato from WW2, it's a keeper! Will always have a spot in my gardens! If you get the chance, give it a try!

Camo

I'm sure we can do better than 6th this year. I know the Japs are being grown by more people this year than last so I'm interested to hear what others say about them. I've already eaten my first Jap and it was pretty good. Not the best ever, but there are more on the way! Time to get back to perfecting my tomato sandwich building skills!