dessertdruer

Dessertdruor, or dessert grapes, refers to grapes cultivated primarily for fresh consumption as a dessert fruit. Unlike wine grapes, which are grown for fermentation, dessert grapes emphasize sweetness, texture, and portability for eating out of hand, in fruit bowls, or in salads.

Most varieties sold for dessert are seedless, and they come in several colors including green/white, red, and black/purple. Common table grapes include Thompson Seedless, Flame Seedless, Crimson Seedless, Sugraone, Red Globe, and Autumn Royal, among others.

Vineyards for dessert grapes are typically in warm climates with long growing seasons. They are grown on trellises to maximize sun exposure and fruit quality. Management focuses on yield control, berry size, skin resilience, and protection from pests and diseases such as powdery mildew and botrytis.

Harvest is usually by hand, at full ripe maturity, to preserve sweetness and texture. Post-harvest handling emphasizes rapid cooling and careful handling to extend shelf life, with common storage at near 0 °C (32 °F) and high humidity for transport to markets.

Uses include fresh consumption, inclusion in fruit salads, and juices; some varieties are dried as raisins. Nutritionally, grapes are high in water and natural sugars, and provide vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols; the skin contains compounds associated with antioxidant activity.

Globally, major producers of dessert grapes include China, Turkey, the United States (notably California), Italy, Spain, Chile, and India. Production varies by season and climate, with ongoing breeding programs aimed at improving flavor, storability, and disease resistance.