Being in year 4 of newer-planted apples and crabs, I haven't had enough fruit to experience the ups and downs of producing fruit to any great degree. I can say that Liberty, Enterprise, Goldrush, Wolf River, Ark. Black, N.Y. 35 " Bonkers ", and Prairie Spy are growing very well for us at camp. The new trees planted just this spring are Galarina, Crimson Topaz, Sundance, & Dayton. So far - so good with those 4 varieties.
As for crabs - Our All-Winter-Hangover is my favorite. ( SLN tree ). Our Chestnut crab is growing gangbusters - about 13 ft. tall now in year 3. Dolgo, Centennial, Violi's Hanging crab, Kerr, Hyslop, Winter Wildlife, and Nova Scotia crabs are all growing well. Kerr attracted Japanese beetles more than the others. But really - all of these have done well for us. We have a total of 67 trees planted in the last 4 years. We planted many varieties for cross-pollination, and to vary bloom times / drop times. If I had to pick 1 favorite apple, it would be Goldrush. Late dropper and EXCELLENT taste to me.