Interactive Tool

Durian Variety Comparison Tool

Compare two durian varieties side by side by taste, texture, aroma, price range, season, and rarity. Perfect for long-tail queries like “Musang King vs Black Thorn” before you buy in Penang.

Choose Two Varieties

D11 vs Black Gold (Empire King)

D11

The D11 durian, known for its sweet, creamy flavor and unique characteristics, is a beloved variety among durian enthusiasts in Malaysia.

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Black Gold (Empire King)

The Black Gold durian, also known as Empire King or Black Gold Musang King, is a highly prized and rare variety of durian. It is considered a premium grade of the popular Musang King (Mao Shan Wang) durian. The flavor is intensely complex with a sophisticated bitterness that reveals layers of deep sweetness. The texture is exceptionally creamy and buttery, offering a luxurious mouthfeel.

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Metric D11 Black Gold (Empire King)
Flavor profile Strong sweet, bitter Strong bitter, sweet
Texture Creamy, dry, sticky Creamy, velvety, smooth
Aroma Mild Mild
Taste notes Rich sweetness, a hint of bitterness Deeply complex and intense flavor
Price range RM20 - RM30 per kg RM60 - RM100 per kg
Season May to July June - August
Popularity Medium-Low High
Rarity signal Unknown Common

Quick Verdict Snapshot

  • Price: D11 averages around RM25.00 vs RM80.00 for Black Gold (Empire King).
  • Bitterness style: Both show bitter/complex signals; choose based on desired finish and aroma intensity.
  • Creaminess: Both include creamy descriptors; final choice depends on whether you prefer heavier or cleaner finish.
  • Buying tip: Ask sellers for your target profile directly, e.g., “bitter creamy sticky-dry” or “sweet mild less pungent.”

FAQ

Which is better for first-time eaters?

Usually the milder aroma and less bitter profile is easier for beginners. Use the comparison table to identify lower intensity options.

Can I trust popularity as quality?

Popularity helps with consistency and availability, but quality still changes by season lot, ripeness, and handling at each stall.

Should I compare by price or taste first?

Start with taste and texture target first, then optimize by price range. The most expensive option is not always your best match.