Vitis vinifera L. grows best in a Mediterranean type of climate with long, relatively dry summers and mild winters.
These conditions are restricted to areas in geographical belts generally between the 30th parallel and 45th parallel of the Northern and Southern hemispheres.
Grapes are highly perishable in nature. Therefore, they cannot be stored for long periods or transported long distances at ambient temperature.
The storage of grapes at room temperature result in loss of weight, berry drop and rotting of berries, resulting in heavy loss to the producer.
The color of grapes can be black, blue, golden, green, purple, red or white, while the flavors range from fruity to spicy to muscat, depending upon variety.
Grapes are a valuable source of numerous phytonutrients and many studies have suggested cardiovascular benefits, while some work has indicated cancer chemopreventive activity.
Grapes are a versatile fruit. They are enjoyed fresh and processed into a number of popular products such as wines, raisins, juices, jellies, canned grapes and frozen grapes.
However, a significant part of grape is marketed annually as fresh fruit, making table grapes one of the world’s prominent fresh-fruit crops.
Genus Vitis of grapes
