Grape varieties

Grape Varieties

Grape varieties, also known as grape cultivars, are specific types of grapes that are distinguished by their unique characteristics. These characteristics can include factors such as color, size, taste, and growth habits. There are thousands of grape varieties worldwide, many of which are used for wine production, while others are grown for table grapes or for making raisins and grape juice.

Types of Grape Varieties

Grape varieties can be broadly categorized into two main types: Vitis vinifera and Vitis labrusca.

Vitis vinifera is a species of grape native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. This species includes most of the well-known grape varieties used in wine production, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Vitis labrusca is a species of grape native to North America. Varieties of this species are often used for table grapes or grape juice. Examples include Concord and Niagara.

Wine Grape Varieties

Wine grape varieties are specifically cultivated for the production of wine. These varieties are typically classified by their color and include red, white, and rosé varieties.

Red wine grape varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Syrah. These grapes are used to produce red wines due to the color of their skins.

White wine grape varieties include Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, and Pinot Grigio. These grapes are used to produce white wines, which are typically lighter in color and flavor than red wines.

Rosé wine grape varieties include Grenache, Sangiovese, and Pinot Noir. These grapes are used to produce rosé wines, which are pink in color due to the brief contact with the grape skins during the winemaking process.

Table Grape Varieties

Table grape varieties are cultivated for direct consumption as fresh fruit. These varieties are typically larger and have a thicker skin than wine grape varieties. Examples include Thompson Seedless, Flame Seedless, and Red Globe.

Raisin and Grape Juice Varieties

Raisin and grape juice varieties are cultivated for their high sugar content, which makes them ideal for drying into raisins or for making grape juice. Examples include Concord and Niagara.

See Also

• List of grape varieties
• Viticulture
• Wine
• Table grape
• Raisin
• Grape juice

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