What is the botanical classification of a grape, and on what type of plant does it grow?

Botanically, a grape is classified as a berry. It grows on the deciduous woody vines belonging to the flowering plant genus *Vitis*. Berries are a type of fruit that typically develop from a single flower with one ovary and usually contain multiple seeds.

Are grapes climacteric or non-climacteric fruits, and how do they typically grow?

Grapes are considered non-climacteric fruits, meaning they do not continue to ripen significantly after being harvested. They generally grow in clusters on the vine.

When did the cultivation of grapes begin, and what are some of the primary ways grapes have been used by humans throughout history?

The cultivation of grapes began approximately 8,000 years ago. Historically, grapes have been consumed fresh or dried (as raisins, currants, and sultanas), and they are culturally significant for their role in winemaking. They are also processed into products like jam, juice, vinegar, and oil.

According to historical evidence, where is the homeland of grapes, and when did cultivation begin there?

The Middle East is generally described as the homeland of grapes, with their cultivation beginning there between 6,000 and 8,000 years ago. This region provided the ideal environment for the wild grape vine to thrive.

How did the natural occurrence of yeast on grape skins contribute to human history?

Yeast, one of the earliest domesticated microorganisms, naturally occurs on the skins of grapes. This presence led to the discovery of alcoholic beverages, most notably wine, as the yeast ferments the grape sugars.

What is the earliest archaeological evidence for the significant role of winemaking in human culture, and where was it found?

The earliest archaeological evidence indicating the dominant role of winemaking in human culture dates back 8,000 years and was found in Georgia. This discovery highlights the ancient origins of wine production and its integration into early societies.

Which ancient winery is considered the oldest known, and in which modern-day country was it discovered?

The Areni-1 winery, discovered in Armenia, is considered the oldest known winery. It dates back to approximately 4000 BC, providing significant insight into early winemaking practices.

What is the proposed origin of the name for Syrah red wine?

It has been proposed that Syrah red wine is named after Shiraz, a city in Persia (modern-day Iran), which was known in the 9th century AD for producing fine wines. The grape variety was used to make Shirazi wine in this region.

Which ancient civilizations are known to have cultivated grapes for consumption and wine production, as evidenced by historical records?

Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics document the cultivation of purple grapes, and historical accounts confirm that the ancient Greeks, Cypriots, Phoenicians, and Romans also grew purple grapes for eating and wine production. These civilizations played a key role in spreading viticulture across the Mediterranean.

When were the oldest known wine jars discovered in Cyprus, and what do they indicate about winemaking in the region?

The oldest known wine jars were discovered in Cyprus in the 1930s and have been dated back to 3500 BC. These findings suggest that Cyprus has a very long history of winemaking, with these jars being the oldest of their kind found globally.

What is Commandaria, and what is its historical significance regarding wine?

Commandaria is a sweet dessert wine from Cyprus, recognized as the oldest manufactured wine in the world. Its origins trace back as far as 2000 BC, making it a significant historical artifact in the study of viticulture and oenology.

How did native North American grapes differ from European varieties in the eyes of early colonists, and what significant development occurred in the 19th century regarding these grapes?

Early European colonists considered native North American grapes unsuitable for wine production, despite their prevalence in the wild and use by Native Americans. In the 19th century, Ephraim Bull of Concord, Massachusetts, cultivated seeds from wild *Vitis labrusca* vines to create the Concord grape, which became an important agricultural crop in the United States.

What are the typical colors of grapes, and how did white grapes evolve from purple ones?

Grapes typically grow in clusters and can be crimson, black, dark blue, yellow, orange, and pink. 'White' grapes are actually green and evolved from purple grapes due to mutations in two regulatory genes that switched off the production of anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for purple coloration.

What is the approximate nutritional breakdown of raw grapes per 100 grams?

Raw grapes are composed of about 81% water, 18% carbohydrates, 1% protein, and have negligible fat content. A 100-gram serving provides approximately 69 kilocalories (288 kJ) of energy.

Which vitamin is present in a significant amount in grapes, and what percentage of the Daily Value does it represent per 100 grams?

Per 100 grams, grapes provide a moderate amount of vitamin K, supplying about 12% of the Daily Value. Vitamin K is essential for blood clotting and bone health.

What is the primary species from which most domesticated grapes originate, and where is it native to?

Most domesticated grapes are cultivars of *Vitis vinifera*, a grapevine species native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. This species is renowned for producing high-quality wine grapes.

Name at least three Asian or American species of *Vitis* that are cultivated for fruit or wine, besides *Vitis vinifera*.

Besides *Vitis vinifera*, other cultivated species include *Vitis amurensis* (an important Asian species), *Vitis labrusca* (native to Eastern North America, known for the Concord grape), *Vitis mustangensis* (found in the southern United States), *Vitis riparia* (a wild North American vine), and *Vitis rotundifolia* (the muscadine grape, native to the Southeastern United States).

According to 2023 data, which country dedicated the most land to grape growing, and what were the next three largest countries by area?

In 2023, Spain dedicated the most land to grape growing with 913,000 hectares. Following Spain were France with 753,340 hectares, Italy with 713,350 hectares, and China with 607,030 hectares.

What percentage of world grape production is used for wine, and what percentage is consumed as fresh fruit?

Approximately 71% of the world's grape production is utilized for wine, while 27% is consumed as fresh fruit. The remaining 2% is processed into dried fruit.

Which grape variety is believed to be the most widely planted globally, and what is its common name in the United States?

The Sultana grape, also known as Thompson Seedless in the United States, is believed to be the most widely planted grape variety worldwide. It is estimated that at least 880,000 acres are dedicated to its cultivation.

What are the primary differences between table grapes and wine grapes in terms of their characteristics?

Table grapes typically have large, seedless fruit with relatively thin skins, making them ideal for fresh consumption. Wine grapes, conversely, are generally smaller, often seeded, and possess thicker skins, which contribute significantly to the aroma and color of wine.

How do wine grapes achieve their high sugar content, and how does it compare to commercially produced grape juice?

Wine grapes accumulate sugars through photosynthesis in the leaves, with sucrose being transported to the fruit and then hydrolyzed into glucose and fructose during ripening. Wine grapes are harvested when their juice is about 24% sugar by weight, whereas commercially produced grape juice from table grapes is typically around 15% sugar by weight.

Why are seedless grape cultivars now dominant for table grapes, and what is a potential drawback of seedlessness?

Seedless grape cultivars dominate table grape plantings because they are more convenient for consumers. A potential drawback is the loss of potential health benefits associated with grape seeds, which are rich in phytochemicals.

What are the three main sources from which commercial seedless grape cultivars derive their trait?

The seedlessness trait in commercial grape cultivars primarily originates from three sources: Thompson Seedless, Russian Seedless, and Black Monukka. All three are cultivars of *Vitis vinifera*.

What are the primary culinary uses of grapes, beyond being eaten fresh?

Beyond being eaten fresh, grapes are commonly consumed dried as raisins, currants, and sultanas. They are also cooked and processed into various products such as jams, juices, vinegars, and oils, and are fundamental to winemaking.

How does the term 'raisin', 'currant', and 'sultana' differ in meaning, particularly in European contexts?

In most of Europe and North America, 'raisin' refers to any dried grape. However, in Britain and Ireland, specific terms are used: a 'currant' is a dried Zante Black Corinth grape (a name derived from Corinth), and a 'sultana' was traditionally a raisin from Sultana grapes but now often refers to bleached raisins from white or red grapes. The French term for raisin is 'raisin sec' (dry grape), while 'raisin' refers to the fresh fruit.

What is 'must' in the context of the wine industry?

In the wine industry, 'must' refers to grape juice that contains pulp, skins, stems, and seeds. This mixture typically constitutes 7% to 23% of the total volume and is the starting point for fermentation into wine.

What types of native American grapes are commonly used for juice production in North America, and what are they known for?

In North America, purple grape juice is most commonly made from Concord grapes, while white grape juice is typically produced from Niagara grapes. Both Concord and Niagara are varieties of native American grapes, distinct from European wine grape species.

What is 'husrum' or 'verjuice', and how is it traditionally prepared and used in the Middle East?

Husrum, also known as verjuice, is a type of vinegar made from unripened grapes in the Middle East. It is prepared by crushing the unripe grapes, collecting and salting the juice, simmering it to remove foam, and then preserving it with a layer of olive oil. It is used as an acidic ingredient in dishes like salads and stuffed vegetables.

What is grape pomace, and what valuable compounds does it contain?

Grape pomace, also known as marc, consists of the organic residues left after winemaking, including crushed skins, seeds, and stems. It constitutes about 10-30% of the grapes' total mass and contains various phytochemicals such as polyphenols, tannins, and anthocyanins, which can be extracted for commercial use.

What are the primary polyphenolic compounds found in the skins of purple grapes versus white grapes?

Anthocyanins are the main polyphenolic compounds found in the skins of purple grapes, responsible for their color. In contrast, flavan-3-ols, such as catechins, are the more abundant polyphenols in white grape skins, as they lack anthocyanins.

Which specific phenolic compounds are major constituents found in the skins of muscadine grapes?

The skins of muscadine grapes contain significant phenolic content, including ellagic acid, myricetin, quercetin, kaempferol, and trans-resveratrol as major compounds. These compounds contribute to the grape's antioxidant properties.

What are the key components of grape seed oil, and what industries utilize it?

Grape seed oil is rich in tocopherols (vitamin E), phytosterols, and polyunsaturated fatty acids like linoleic acid and oleic acid. It is used in the cosmetic and skincare industries for its beneficial properties.

Where is resveratrol primarily found within the grape, and which grape variety is noted for its high concentration?

Resveratrol, a stilbene compound, is found in varying amounts within grape varieties, primarily concentrated in their skins and seeds. Muscadine grapes are particularly noted for having about one hundred times higher concentrations of stilbenes compared to their pulp.

What health risk do grapes and raisins pose to dogs?

Grapes and raisins can be toxic to dogs, potentially causing acute kidney failure. This condition can lead to anuria (lack of urine production) and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

What is the significance of the image depicting flower buds, flowers, and immature fruit in the context of a grape's life cycle?

The images of flower buds, flowers, and immature fruit illustrate the stages of a grapevine's reproductive cycle. These stages are crucial for the development of the grape clusters that will eventually be harvested.

What does the image of moldy grapes suggest about grape storage or quality?

The image of moldy grapes highlights the potential for spoilage, indicating that grapes are susceptible to fungal growth under certain conditions. This underscores the importance of proper storage and handling to maintain grape quality and prevent decay.

What is the primary species of grapevine used for commercial grape production worldwide?

The primary species used for commercial grape production globally is *Vitis vinifera*. This species is native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia and is responsible for the vast majority of wine grapes and many table grape varieties.

What is the main difference in sugar content between wine grapes at harvest and commercially produced grape juice made from table grapes?

Wine grapes are typically harvested when their juice contains approximately 24% sugar by weight, indicating a high sugar concentration for fermentation. In contrast, commercially produced grape juice, made from table grapes, usually contains around 15% sugar by weight.

What is the role of anthocyanins in grapes, and how does their absence lead to white grapes?

Anthocyanins are pigments responsible for the red, purple, and blue colors found in many grape varieties. White grapes evolved from purple grapes due to mutations in specific regulatory genes that halt the production of these anthocyanin pigments.

What are the top three countries in terms of grape production volume as of 2023?

As of 2023, the top three grape-producing countries by volume were China, leading with 13.5 million tonnes, followed by Italy and France. These countries collectively account for a significant portion of global grape output.

Which two countries were the leading exporters of grapes in 2023, and what was their approximate export volume?

In 2023, Peru and Chile were the leading exporters of grapes, each exporting over half a million tonnes. Peru exported approximately 647,967 tonnes, while Chile exported around 529,470 tonnes.

What is the significance of the 'See also' section in the article?

The 'See also' section provides links to related articles that offer further information on topics connected to grapes, such as specific grape dishes, lists of varieties, and related botanical or cultural subjects. It serves as a navigational aid for readers seeking deeper knowledge.

Grape Wiki: The Cultivated Grape: From Ancient Vineyards to Modern Tables

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A Storied Past

Ancient Origins

The cultivation of grapes, originating in the Middle East, commenced approximately 8,000 years ago. Archaeological evidence from Georgia suggests wine-making played a dominant role in human culture as early as 6,000–8,000 years ago. The earliest known winery, dating back to 4000 BC, was discovered in Armenia.^[1]^[2]^[3]

Cultural Significance

Grapes have been a staple food throughout history, consumed fresh or dried (as raisins, currants, and sultanas). Their cultural importance is profound, particularly in the context of winemaking. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Phoenicians, and Romans, cultivated grapes for both consumption and wine production.^[8]

Global Spread

From its origins in the Mediterranean and Central Asia, grape cultivation spread across Europe, North Africa, and eventually to North America. Early European colonists encountered native American grape species, like Vitis labrusca, which were later cultivated into important varieties such as the Concord grape.^[11]

Nutritional Profile

Composition

Raw grapes are primarily composed of water (81%) and carbohydrates (18%), with a small amount of protein (1%) and negligible fat. A 100-gram serving provides approximately 69 kilocalories (288 kJ).^[1]

Key Nutrients

While grapes offer a moderate amount of Vitamin K (around 12% Daily Value per 100g), they do not contain significant amounts of other micronutrients. They are a source of natural sugars like fructose and glucose, contributing to their energy content.^[12]

Nutritional Value per 100g
Nutrient	Amount	%DV*
Energy	288 kJ (69 kcal)
Carbohydrates	18.1 g
Sugars	15.48 g
Dietary Fiber	0.9 g
Fat	0.16 g
Protein	0.72 g
Vitamin K	14.6 µg	12%
Potassium	191 mg	4%
Vitamin C	3.2 mg	4%

* Percent Daily Values are based on US recommendations for adults.

Varieties and Color

Grapes exist in various colors, including crimson, black, yellow, green, and pink. "White" grapes are essentially green varieties that lack anthocyanins, pigments responsible for the purple hue found in other grapes. These pigments, part of the polyphenol family, contribute to the color of red wines.^[14]

Grape Varieties

Wine vs. Table Grapes

Most commercially cultivated grapes belong to the Vitis vinifera species. They are broadly categorized into table grapes and wine grapes, differing significantly in characteristics due to selective breeding. Table grapes typically feature large, seedless fruit with thin skins, while wine grapes are smaller, often seeded, with thicker skins rich in aroma compounds.^[21]

Seedless Cultivars

Seedless varieties now dominate table grape production. While lacking seeds, they are propagated vegetatively. Key sources for the seedless trait include Thompson Seedless, Russian Seedless, and Black Monukka. However, seedlessness means a potential loss of beneficial phytochemicals found in grape seeds.^[24]

Top Varieties

While precise data is limited, the Sultana (Thompson Seedless) is believed to be the most widely planted variety globally. Other prominent cultivars include Airén, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon blanc, Merlot, and Chardonnay.^[19]

Top 20 by Acreage:

White: Airén, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc, Riesling, Trebbiano Toscano, etc.
Red: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tempranillo, Syrah/Shiraz, Pinot Noir, etc.

(See full list in the navbox for comprehensive details)

Diverse Applications

Culinary Uses

Grapes are versatile, enjoyed fresh, dried into raisins, or used in various culinary preparations. Grape leaves are also used in dishes like dolma.^[29]

Wine and Juice

The majority (71%) of global grape production is destined for winemaking. Wine grapes are harvested at higher sugar concentrations (around 24% by weight) compared to table grapes used for juice (around 15% sugar).^[21] Grape juice, often made from Concord or Niagara varieties in North America, is a popular non-alcoholic beverage.^[28]

Phytochemicals and Byproducts

Grape skins and seeds are rich in polyphenols, including anthocyanins and resveratrol, known for their antioxidant properties.^[15] Winemaking byproducts, or pomace, contain these compounds and are increasingly utilized for commercial applications.^[31] Grape seed oil is valued in cosmetics for its nutritional components.^[38]

Global Production & Trade

Production Landscape

In 2023, global grape production reached 72.5 million tonnes. China led production, followed by Italy and France. Spain dedicates the largest area to grape cultivation, followed by France and Italy.^[17]^[18]

Export Markets

Peru and Chile were the leading exporters of grapes in 2023, each shipping over half a million tonnes. China, Italy, and the Netherlands also feature prominently in global grape exports.^[20]

Canine Toxicity

It is crucial to note that grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs, potentially causing acute kidney failure. Pet owners should exercise extreme caution to prevent canine ingestion.^[43]

Deepen Your Understanding

Key Concepts

Review the core concepts of grape cultivation, including the distinction between table and wine grapes, the role of specific cultivars like Sultana and Concord, and the importance of viticultural practices.

Viticulture: The science and study of grape cultivation.
Vitis vinifera: The primary species for wine and table grapes.
Terroir: The environmental factors (soil, climate, topography) influencing grape characteristics.
Phytochemicals: Beneficial compounds like polyphenols and resveratrol found in grapes.
Pomace: Grape residue (skins, seeds) from winemaking, a source of valuable extracts.

Related Resources

Explore further information through curated links to related topics and resources.

Grapes on Wikiquote
Grape definition on Wiktionary
Grapes on Wikimedia Commons
Viticulture Portal
Juice Portal

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References

Cosme, F., Pinto, T., & Vilela, A. (2018). Phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in grape juices: A chemical and sensory view. Beverages, 4(1), 22, p. 9

A full list of references for this article are available at the Grape Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI model and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. While based on data from reputable sources like Wikipedia, it may not be exhaustive, entirely accurate, or fully up-to-date. Always consult primary sources and expert advice for critical applications.

This is not professional advice. The information provided does not constitute agricultural, nutritional, or food safety consultation. For specific dietary needs, agricultural practices, or food handling guidelines, please consult qualified professionals and refer to official documentation.

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The Cultivated Grape

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past 📜

🌍 Ancient Origins

🏺 Cultural Significance

🗺️ Global Spread

Nutritional Profile 📊

🔬 Composition

💊 Key Nutrients

🍇 Varieties and Color

Grape Varieties 🌿

🍷 Wine vs. Table Grapes

🚫 Seedless Cultivars

📈 Top Varieties

Top 20 by Acreage:

Diverse Applications 🍽️

🍇 Culinary Uses

🍾 Wine and Juice

🧪 Phytochemicals and Byproducts

Global Production & Trade 📈

🌍 Production Landscape

➡️ Export Markets

⚠️ Canine Toxicity

Deepen Your Understanding 📚

💡 Key Concepts

🔗 Related Resources

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Academic Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Ancient Origins

Cultural Significance

Global Spread

Nutritional Profile

Composition

Key Nutrients

Varieties and Color

Grape Varieties

Wine vs. Table Grapes

Seedless Cultivars

Top Varieties

Diverse Applications

Culinary Uses

Wine and Juice

Phytochemicals and Byproducts

Global Production & Trade

Production Landscape

Export Markets

Canine Toxicity

Deepen Your Understanding

Key Concepts

Related Resources

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice