When potato growers line up for their potato bar lunch at the 48th annual Washington State Potato Conference, they will be meeting and eating an old acquaintance with a new name.

The new Classic Russet being topped and served by Commissioners this year was also on the menu at the potato bar in 2006, but then known as A95109-1.

The industry has high hopes for the newcomer, as it’s taking on two potato giants, the Norkotah and Burbank. Based on four years of evaluations by taste panels, Classic Russet has shown excellent culinary attributes that are comparable to Russet Burbank.

The attractive Classic Russet has the fresh industry viewing it as a replacement for Russet Norkotah—an early harvest, fresh pack variety widely grown in the U.S.

Like Norkotah, Classic also has good potential for processing into fries and other frozen potato products.