Today I found quince, which I've never seen at a grocery store before (I've never had quince before). I have to say that it was less than I expected; really dry and slightly astringent. They seemed ripe. I bought the ones that were the most yellow and even had some slight bruising on the skin. I was expecting something more tart and crisp.

I know I can't grow them here due to the long growing season necessary so I was hoping for more of a wow factor. Is my experience normal or is this just like buying "tree ripened" peaches at the grocery store?

I can't imagine using garden space for these.