With over 10,000 varieties of grapes grown worldwide, only a select few make their way into our kitchens. While many are reserved for wine, vinegar, raisins, or other by-products, some varieties are grown purely for enjoyment as table grapes. These are the grapes you’ll find at your grocery store or local farmers market, perfect for snacking straight off the vine.
17 Types Of Grapes You Should Know
Here’s a look at 17 grape varieties you should know about, from common grocery store types to farmers’ market gems.
1. Muscadine
Native to the Southeastern U.S., Muscadine grapes are known for their thick skins and large, round berries. These sweet, floral grapes can be enjoyed raw or made into jams. While the skin is edible, many prefer to slip out the juicy pulp and discard the seeds.
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2. Tear Drop
Also known as Funny Finger grapes, these tubular grapes come in red and green varieties. Their thin skins and sweet, crisp flesh make them perfect for snacking. The unique elongated shape and satisfying crunch are especially enjoyable when chilled.
3. Concord
Concord grapes are the classic “grape-flavored” variety. They are famous for their use in juices and grape-flavored treats. Native to North America, these thick-skinned grapes have a deep purple color and a sweet, intense flavor that pairs well with sweet and savory dishes.
4. Moon Drop
Bred by International Fruit Genetics, Moon Drop grapes have an elongated shape, a deep blue-black color, and a sweet, balanced flavor. These seedless grapes are perfect for snacking and are best enjoyed raw or in salads.
5. Cotton Candy
Famed for their candy-like sweetness, Cotton Candy grapes have a pale green appearance and a flavor reminiscent of the fairground treat. These seedless grapes are a summer favorite found in grocery stores or frozen for a creamy, sorbet-like texture.
6. Red Seeded (Red Globe)
These globe-shaped grapes have firm flesh, thin skins, and small seeds. The slightly bitter seeds balance the grape’s juicy sweetness, making them great for snacking or adding to salads.
7.Green California Table Grape
When you think of green grapes, you’re likely picturing this variety. Grown in California, these seedless grapes have a crisp texture and juicy flesh, making them ideal for snacking or making jams.
8. Red Muscato
Red Muscato grapes are oval-shaped, sweet, and slightly tart. Their thin skins and apple-like flavor make them perfect for grilling, and when cooked over an open flame, they add a caramelized touch to any dish.
9. Gum Drop
These petite, round grapes have a tender texture and a sweet, candy-like flavor. Their small size and burst of sweetness make them perfect for cooking or snacking.
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10. Champagne
Despite the name, Champagne grapes are not used in making sparkling wine. These tiny, seedless purple grapes have a sweet, tart flavor and are perfect for charcuterie boards or salads due to their size and stunning appearance.
11. Black Moscato
With their rich, dark color and complex flavor, Black Moscato grapes have a sweetness reminiscent of blackberries and plums. Their intense flavor makes them great for sweet and savory dishes, and holds up well to high cooking temperatures.
12. Green Seedless
A common variety found year-round, Green Seedless grapes are known for their simple, sweet flavor and thin skins. While not complex in taste, they are perfect for snacking or adding to fruit salads.
13. Canadice
In colder climates like New York, Canadian grapes have medium-thick skins and a lovely balance of sweet and acidic flavors. Their floral aroma and juicy texture make them perfect for enjoying raw or in jams.
14. Red Seedless
Like their green counterparts, Red Seedless grapes have a simple sweetness with thin skins. Their bright color and juicy flavor make them great for fruit salads or cheese pairings.
15. Faith
Faith grapes are a newer seedless variety developed by the University of Arkansas. They have soft pulp and a lychee-like sweetness. Though they have tiny seeds, they’re easy to chew and neutral in flavor.
16. Glenora
A hybrid of V. vinifera and V. labrusca, Glenora grapes have a blueberry-like flavor and blend sweet, tart, and floral notes. Their small size and complex taste make them perfect for snacking or adding to desserts.
17. Somerset
With their strawberry-like flavor, Somerset grapes are sweet, juicy, and complex. Their thin skins and tender flesh make them a delicious addition to fruit salads, and their sweet yet slightly savory flavor profile adds depth to any dish.
Conclusion
From the classic Concord to the exotic Cotton Candy, these grape varieties offer something for every palate. Whether you prefer your grapes sweet, tart, seedless, or full of flavor, these 17 types will take your grape game to the next level.