Ohio State University Extension Fact Sheet

Human Nutrition and Food Management

1787 Neil Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43210-1295

Selecting, Storing and Serving Ohio Grapes

HYG-5518-93

Ohio grapes are grown for winemaking, juice (including juice made into jelly) and for fresh table eating. There are many grapes suitable for wine making including some varieties raised exclusively for that purpose. The Ohio grape variety most popular for juice is Concord with Niagara grapes suitable for white grape juice. There are several different table grape varieties. Besides Niagara and Concord, there are two popular seedless varieties; they are Himrod (green) and Reliance (red). Whether for wine or some other use, all grapes are suitable for fresh consumption. Table grapes are especially good for fresh consumption.

Selection

Ohio grapes are available from mid August to October. Unlike some fruits, grapes will not improve or ripen after they have been harvested. Therefore, they must be at peak quality and sweetness when you purchase them.

Green grapes are the sweetest and best flavored when they're yellow-green in color; red varieties when the grapes are predominately red; and the blue-black varieties when the berries have a full rich color.

Grapes should be firm, plump and well colored and firmly attached to green pliable stems. Dry and brittle stems usually cause grapes to drop from the stems. This is a sign of poor quality. Moldy and wet grapes indicate decay. Avoid grapes that are shriveled or soft at stem attachment.

Storage

Grapes can be stored in the refrigerator, in a perforated plastic bag, or in a location with low temperatures (down to 31 degrees F) and high humidity. Wash just before use by holding under cool running water. Drain and dry. Grapes will keep well in storage for about 2 weeks but are best when eaten within 2 to 3 days.

Yield

Due to the many variables such as moisture content, size, and variety, it is impossible to give specific recommendations as to quantities to buy. However, it can be estimated that 4 cups of grapes = 1-1/2 pounds or 1 bushel = 48 pounds.

Nutrition

Grapes are relatively low in calories; 10 grapes contain about 40 calories. They supply small amounts of potassium, thiamin, phosphorous and Vitamin A. Grape juice contains about 165 calories per cup.

Serving

• Include grapes in tuna, shrimp, or curried chicken salad.
• Slice green, red, and blue-black grapes in half and arrange on top of a store-bought or homemade cheesecake.
• Top your favorite grapes in a crystal glass with plain yogurt and honey whipped together.
• Grapes, a variety of cheeses, and Ohio dessert wine makes an elegant dessert.
• Garnish appetizers, main dishes, and desserts with bunches of grapes.
• Serve grapes with cottage cheese for a low calorie light lunch. To the cottage cheese, add a dash of lime juice, cinnamon and a few coarsely chopped toasted walnuts.

Fresh Grape Parfait

1 cup plain low fat yogurt

1/3 cup light brown sugar, firmly packed

1 teaspoon grated fresh orange peel

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

1- 1/2 pounds green grapes

Ground nutmeg

Blend yogurt, sugar, orange peel and vanilla extract. Remove grapes from stems and cut in half. Arrange alternate layers of grapes and yogurt in parfait glasses. Chill thoroughly. Garnish with nutmeg and a grape cluster. Makes 6 servings.

For information on preserving grapes, contact your county office of Ohio State University Extension for Home Yard and Garden Fact Sheets and Bulletins:
#5343-91, "Basics of Canning Fruit"
#5335-91, "Jams, Jellies and Other Fruit Spreads"
#1423-92, "Growing Grapes with Home Fruit Planting"
#716, "Home Drying of Foods"
#591, "Growing andUsing Fruit at Home"