I love stuff like this. I searched my favorite variety [0] and learned that the genetics are actually patented and the university that owns it has an entire program for breeding apples [1].
They are still patented I think, but you can buy the trees now. Some of our local orchards have started growing them and I know you can get the trees from nurseries. I don't know if the big box stores have them. You may have to look around.
Ditto! I came across this site some time ago trying to find a place where I could buy a Frostbite (nee Minnesota 447) apple. My aunt has a tree and its apples make a hell of a cider. Turns out that he really likes this particular variety. [0]
I don't think it is rare for a university to have these kinds of breeding programs and put patents on the result. The one near me does that with cherries.