Effects of variety and drying process on apple’s polyphenolic content were investigated. Antioxidant capacity and total polyphenol content were determined on dry and fresh apples. 1H NMR spectral analysis combined with PCA multivariate approach were used to characterize apples. Ancient underutilized apples showed greater polyphenol contents and antioxidant activity than cultivated apples. The antioxidant capacity of the ancient underutilized apples remain higher than reference apple after drying.