WHERE GRAPES COME FROM / HOW GRAPES GROW:
"Grapes grow in clusters on woody vines like a Thompson Seedless grape plant, and a "Red Flame,” two of the most popular table grapes in America"
- Grapes grow in full sun and in DEEP, well drained soil
- Grapes need 150-frost free day growing season with minimum winter temperatures above -25 degrees
- One plant can grow to 30 feet long and bear 10-12 pounds of grapes per vine; it will need structural support
BESIDES COLOR – HERE ARE SOME OTHER WAYS IN WHICH GRAPES DIFFER:
"There are thousands of different grape varieties cultivated and developed specifically for use in wine, juice, jam, raisins and table grapes:"
- SUGAR CONTENT: Wine grapes are usually much sweeter than table grapes as sugar levels are directly related to potential alcohol content of wine.
- SEEDS & SKINS: Wine grapes usually have thicker skins and lots of seeds as these impart the tannins, acids and in red wines- color
- FLAVOR: Table grapes usually have thinner skins, are seedless and are developed with flavor in mind.
- THOMPSON SEEDLESS are #1 drying grapes for raisins, table & wine!
SOME
NEW GRAPE VARIETIES AT THE SUPERMARKET:
New grape varieties are the result of hybridizing or grafting two different grape species to produce a new flavor, texture, even shape!
Shirley's Favorites:
- "COTTON CANDY" Tastes just like the candy. Gold color. Sweet with vanilla notes, crunchy and very juicy.
- "MOON DROPS" Look at the shape- out of this world. Dark purple, long crunchy grapes with concord grape flavor
- "JELLY DROPS" -Delicious, concord grape flavor without the seed. Same flavor as the famous grape jelly in P&B sandwiches.
- 'CANDY SWEETS" (Green and red) Amber green grape is petite with sweet flavor and crunchy texture. Plays well with a sharp cheese
The Grapes of Health - Home & Family
Return to the Episode Guide >>
Get more from Shirley at FoodieGardner.com
Produce provided by Melissas.com
