Uva, Uva da Tavola, Uvetta, Sultanina

There is an unbelievable variety of grapes grown in the world; some are cultivated exclusively for wine making, while others are for eating as a fruit - uva da tavola or table grapes. While it is possible to eat wine grapes at the table, table grapes cannot be used to make wine, however.

The vine is a climbing plant, introduced to Italy thousands of years ago from the area around the Caspian Sea. The Romans took this vital plant with them everywhere they went, introducing it to France and many other countries as they conquered Europe. Italy is now the biggest producer of grapes in the world, followed by Spain and France. The majority of these grapes are used to make wine, with the most frequently used grape being the thin-skinned white, pink or red Vitis vinifera. The best-known and most successful table grape is the Italia, which - thanks to new techniques for delaying ripening - is available from August to December. It is much appreciated in Italy and Europe, where it is exported in large quantities to Germany and France. Other varieties include the Uva Regina, the Red Cardinal, Primus and Baresana.