Grapes

Grapes are one of the oldest and most widely traded fruits in the world. Most are made into wine, or squeezed for juice, or dried into raisins and currants. Most grapes are descended from a single ancient species, Vitis vinifera, with some dozen varieties, sold as black (red) or white table grapes. Black grapes shade from dark pink to deep purple. Any surface bloom (a dusty look) on the skin is produced by yeasts and is a sign of recent harvesting. Ranging in color from amber yellow to pale green, white grapes are usually blander than black ones, with a thinner skin and firm musky flesh; the muscatel is notable for its perfume. It is the skin of grapes that contains the color and most of the flavor. Most table grapes contain seeds, but the American Thompson variety is conveniently seedless. Slip-skin varieties, named for skin that slides easily from the flesh, include the American Concord and Catawba. They are often used for juice, jelly and to make regional wines. In Europe a much wider variety of table grapes is available.