Grape clusters full of stories

In ancient Egypt, the grape was already a prized fruit and a luxury item. The Romans discovered that it could be used to make wine, and they spread this knowledge throughout the rest of the world.

White or Red: Two Distinct Flavors

White and red grapes differ not only in color but also in flavor and nutrients. White grapes often have a fresher, lighter flavor, with notes of apple, citrus

or flowers. Red grapes have a warmer and fuller flavor. This color difference is due to anthocyanins: natural pigments. They’re found mainly in red, purple, and blue grapes and act as antioxidants. That’s why it’s often said that dark grapes are “healthier,” although both types contain vitamins, minerals, and water—exactly what your body needs in the heat.

Grapes as a seasonal fruit

Although you see them year-round, grapes are naturally a late-summer and fall fruit. That’s when they’re at their sweetest. In supermarkets, they come from Southern Europe, South Africa, or Chile for most of the year.

Grape facts

• Grapes are about 80% water, making them ideal for quenching your thirst.

• A bunch can contain up to 300 grapes.

• There are over 10,000 grape varieties worldwide. Champagne, port, sherry, and prosecco sound very luxurious, but ultimately, each of these drinks starts with just one thing: a grape.

• Red grapes get their color from their skins. The juice itself is almost always clear.

• Raisins are nothing more than dried grapes, with concentrated sugar and flavor.

Versatile

Grapes are incredibly versatile: you can eat them fresh as a snack, press them into juice, let them ferment into wine, dry them into raisins, freeze them as a frosty treat, and use them in salads, with cakes, or with cheese. And then there’s grape seed oil, grape leaves for dolma, and grape must for balsamic vinegar. Even the “byproducts” from wine production are reused.

 

Fresh Grape Lemonade (Non-Alcoholic)

Preparation: Blend the grapes with the water. Strain the mixture (for a smooth consistency). Add lemon juice and honey. Serve with ice cubes. Extra delicious with a few mint leaves. Cheers.

Ingredients for 2 glasses:

– 250 g grapes (red or green)

– juice of 1⁄2 lemon

– 1–2 tsp honey or sugar

– 200 ml cold water

– ice cubes

 

Love, Daphne