I read an article about the creator of the Honey Crisp and Cosmic Crisp. He chose a different licensing model that gives him more control for the Cosmic Crisp because according to him farmers tended to prefer the better looking, red apples which over time negatively impact what trees they'd use and how apples tasted even within the same variety. I'm not sure I understand the argument on a biological level fully, since I thought all apple trees of the same variety are clones, but I trust the leading expert got it right.
If this is true we have some kind of tragedy of the commons within the growers of a specific variety. If the variety is still popular and known for good taste and your apples look the best, you win. Consumers won't pay enough attention to recognize that a given variety from a particular grower now tastes less good.
A few hours ago, in a German supermarket I saw Honey Crisp from Chile. Have been tempted, but resisted. Honey Crisps from France are more acceptable IMO. Strangely I haven't seen the 'Cosmics' so far, though I always look for them everywhere.
The cosmic is a nice apple. However, I find the Envy apple to be a better combination of crispiness and flavor. I find the Cosmic Crisp to be crispy, but fairly one dimensional in flavor compared to Envy. Another great apple to try is Opal. Less crispy, but interesting flavor profile that almost has a hint of banana.
If this is true we have some kind of tragedy of the commons within the growers of a specific variety. If the variety is still popular and known for good taste and your apples look the best, you win. Consumers won't pay enough attention to recognize that a given variety from a particular grower now tastes less good.