D14

If durians were students in school, the D14 would be the low-key smart kid sitting at the back — not shouting for attention like Musang King, but once you get to know it… wow. This one gets you.

So, where did this gem come from? Legend has it (okay, maybe not a legend legend, but still) that a Malaysian farmer decided to play durian matchmaker in the 1970s. He crossed Musang King and D24 — two real icons — and voilà, baby D14 was born. Some folks say there’s a Penang kampung twist with older trees in Teluk Bahang, but most agree: this baby’s a lovechild of the King and the D24. Drama? Maybe. Delicious? Definitely.

Now let’s talk looks. D14 durians are big boys — large and oval, like a rugby ball with spikes. And not just any spikes. These are the kind of thorns that say, “Don’t mess with me unless you are serious about durian.” Inside? Creamy yellow goodness. Some call it “Big Bird yellow,” which sounds weird but… kind of fits. Sometimes the seeds are tiny, like nature's way of saying, “More flesh for you, buddy.”

Now here’s where it gets interesting — the taste.

Sweet? Yes. Bitter? Also yes. Nutty? Absolutely. It's like eating custard, whipped cream, and a nutty dessert all at once. Some say it has hints of white wine or bitter chocolate. I say it’s a bit like your friend who acts classy at dinner but secretly eats instant noodles at 2am — full of surprises.

Texture-wise, think rich, thick, and sticky — like spreading durian-flavored frosting on toast. Sometimes it’s even semi-dry and bready. I once described it as a “frosting sandwich,” and weirdly, that stuck.

Aroma? Oh, it’s got personality. Some call it “gamey” or “pungent,” especially if you are new to durian life. But if you are already in the durian club, you will catch the subtle nutty sweetness behind the punchy smell. It’s like durian wearing cologne — strong but charming.

D14 usually struts into the market between May and August, with its Penang glow-up season peaking in June and July. If you are in the area, don’t miss it.

A quick tip: a 3.5 kg D14 gives you about 800g of flesh — enough for two people (or just one if you are having a bad day and need comfort food with spikes).

Here’s the deal: D14 may not have the fame of Musang King or Black Thorn, but ask any durian fan who’s tried it — they will tell you it’s a hidden gem. Understated, complex, and seriously satisfying. Just make sure to eat it fresh, ideally right after it plops down from the tree. That’s when the magic happens.