Thomcord (grape)

Thomcord is a seedless table grape variety that is a hybrid of the popular Thompson Seedless and Concord grapes. It was developed by the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and was released to the public in 2003.

History

The Thomcord grape was developed as part of a grape breeding program by the ARS of the USDA. The program aimed to create new grape varieties that combined the best characteristics of existing popular varieties. The Thomcord grape is a cross between the Thompson Seedless and Concord grapes, hence its name. It was released to the public in 2003.

Characteristics

Thomcord grapes are known for their rich, full-bodied flavor that combines the sweet, tropical taste of the Thompson Seedless with the robust, fruity flavor of the Concord. They are seedless and have a thin skin that is easy to eat, making them a popular choice for fresh consumption. The grapes are medium to large in size and have a blue-black color when ripe.

Cultivation

Thomcord grapes are adaptable to a wide range of viticultural climates, but they thrive best in warm, dry climates. They are resistant to several common grape diseases, including powdery mildew, which makes them a good choice for organic or low-spray vineyards. The vines are vigorous and produce a high yield of grapes.

Uses

Thomcord grapes are primarily used as table grapes for fresh consumption. They are also used in the production of grape juice and grape jelly, where their rich flavor and natural sweetness are highly valued.

See also

• List of grape varieties
• Viticulture
• Table grape