grapes

Grapes are the fruit of the Vitis genus, especially Vitis vinifera. They grow in hanging clusters; each berry has a skin, juicy pulp, and often a seed. Grapes are grown for fresh eating, table grapes, wine, juice, and raisins. Varieties differ in size, color, and sweetness; seedless forms are common among table grapes, while many wine varieties retain seeds.

Vine plants are woody, deciduous lianas with tendrils. They require warm growing seasons, full sun, and well-drained soil. Grapevines are trained on trellises and pruned to balance vigor and fruiting. To counter pests like phylloxera and diseases such as powdery mildew, many regions graft vines onto resistant rootstocks and use preventive practices and targeted treatments. Irrigation and canopy management influence sugar levels and flavor.

Uses include fresh fruit, wine, grape juice, and dried fruit. Nutritionally, grapes provide water, natural sugars, small amounts of fiber and minerals, and skin-bound polyphenols that are studied for health effects. Flavor depends on variety, terroir, and viticulture.

Domestication occurred in the Near East thousands of years ago. Today major producing countries include Italy, France, Spain, China, the United States, Turkey, Argentina, Chile, and India. The grape industry supports extensive agricultural sectors, with ongoing development of seedless varieties and specialized cultivars.