D220 Tokun Top

D220 Tokun Top

Bittersweet Thick, sticky, creamy, custardy Medium Popularity
4.8
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A newly registered durian variety from Penang that offers an incredible combination of bitter, rummy, kahlua-vanilla custard flavors. The farm where it's grown is also the first in Malaysia to receive agricultural certification for being a Pesticide-Free Farm. This variety is particularly excellent early in the season and offers a unique flavor profile for those who appreciate complex, bitter durians.

Price Range

RM60 - RM80 per kg

Season

May - July

Taste

Bittersweet

Aroma

Weak

Where to Find

Available at select premium durian stalls in Penang during early season.

Flavor Profile

Sweetness
Bitterness

Characteristics

Flesh Color
Light Dark
Texture
Firm/Fibrous Smooth/Creamy

Personal Comment for D220 Tokun Top

Alright, about D220 Tokun Top durian - a fruit so good it's basically got its own fan club in Penang. If you are into durians that slap your taste buds with flavor and make you go "Ohhh, fancy ," then this one deserves your attention.


A Local Legend from Cherok Tok Kun

Let's start with where it comes from: Cherok Tok Kun, Bukit Mertajam - which is on the mainland side of Penang. Not Balik Pulau, not George Town, but a place quietly growing some seriously next-level durians.

This isn't just some random tree in someone's backyard. The D220 Tokun Top comes from old-school family orchards, some dating back 50+ years. We are talking generational knowledge here - like grandma's secret laksa recipe, but for durians.

Big shoutout to the Chang family, who run the Green View Durian Orchard. They've been farming this stuff for ages, and clearly know what they are doing.

And yes - it's officially registered! That "D220" tag means it's legit. Malaysia government stamped their approval like it's a VIP pass to the durian hall of fame.


What's With the Name?

"Tokun Top" - catchy, right? It's basically saying, "Hey, we're from Tok Kun and we're the Top." Bold, but honestly, fair.

In 2023, it even got its moment in the spotlight at the Bukit Mertajam Durian Festival - think of it like the Met Gala, but more pungent and more delicious. This was a big deal because it introduced the world (or at least Penang) to just how good this durian really is.


What Does It Look Like?

  • Husk : Brownish-green or greenish-brown when ripe - nothing flashy, but looks can be deceiving.
  • Flesh : Soft yellow, sometimes with a bronze-ish glow. One guy even called it "yellowish white" - poetic, honestly.

But the real star? Its texture - thick, sticky, creamy, custardy. Think of it like a luxury dessert made by Mother Nature herself. No fiber, no dry bits - just smooth, silky goodness.


Flavor? Oh, It Gets Fancy

If you are into durians that don't just hit you with sugar and call it a day, D220 Tokun Top is your new best friend.

Here's the breakdown:

  • Bittersweet Symphony : Starts off bitter, then sweet creeps in like a hug after a hard day.
  • Rummy Booze Kick : Yep, it's got a fermented, slightly alcoholic vibe - like the XO sauce of durians. If you've ever tried XO and thought, "I wish this were a fruit," this is your jam.
  • Vanilla Custard + Caramel : Rich, luxurious notes that balance out the bitterness and booze. Imagine dessert and drama all in one bite.

Put it all together, and you have got a durian that doesn't mess around. It's not for the faint-hearted - more like the kind of durian you'd pair with red wine while contemplating life choices.


When Can You Get It?

It's an early-season player , showing up in May/June - basically the first bell of durian school. And since it's early, it's like getting front-row seats to flavor town before the crowds arrive.


Pricey or Pocket-Friendly?

Back in 2022, it hovered around RM28-30/kg - solid mid-range. But now, with its rising fame and premium status, expect prices to climb. Still worth it though, especially if you're chasing that bittersweet buzz.


Final Thoughts

The D220 Tokun Top might not have the street cred of Musang King (yet), but it's definitely got the soul of a champion. Complex, bold, and beautifully balanced, it's the kind of durian that makes you slow down, savor, and maybe even close your eyes in appreciation.

So next time you are durian-hunting in Penang, keep an eye out for this quiet superstar from Cherok Tok Kun. It's worth the trip - and maybe a few extra napkins for the stickiness.

Inspect the Durian and Confirm Prices

Always begin by examining the displayed durians. If many appear subpar, be more caution and it's wise to look elsewhere.

Durian prices are highly variable, much like currency exchange rates. What you paid previously, even recently, might not apply today or tomorrow. Therefore, always confirm the price, even if a tag is visible, to avoid surprises after packing (e.g., being told the displayed price was for a different durian).

And given the highly personal nature of taste – everyone experiences flavors like sweetness and bitterness uniquely – it's best to trust your own palate by requesting a tasting from the seller.

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