Grapes are more than just a sweet treat—they are the essence of fine wines, vibrant celebrations, and healthy snacking. In India, they rank among the most cherished fruits, valued for their flavour, versatility, and nutritional benefits. Grape planting, which was brought by Persian conquerors, is currently quite popular in areas like Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Karnataka. Notably, Nashik, the wine capital of India, is globally recognized for grape production and even features a specialized grape packing facility.
Grapes are members of the Vitaceae family and are scientifically known as Vitis vinifera. Though they share a common ancestry, each variety exhibits unique characteristics in colour, size, taste, and purpose. The vivid colouration seen in grapes is due to anthocyanins, powerful flavonoids that influence pigment and contribute to the fruit’s antioxidant profile.
Only a dozen of the more than 20 grape varietals that India grows are farmed for commercial purposes. These are mainly divided into table grapes—enjoyed fresh or in desserts—and wine grapes, rich in flavour and ideal for fermentation. Let’s explore some of the most popular grape varieties and what makes them special.
Green Sonaka
A variant of the Thompson grape, Green Sonaka is renowned for its elongated berries and delightful sweetness balanced by a tart finish. It’s the second-largest grape variety exported from India and is especially rich in Vitamin C. Being a table grape, it’s perfect for fresh consumption or adding crunch to fruit salads.
Bangalore Blue
A true gem of Karnataka, Bangalore Blue is one of the most celebrated wine grape varieties grown in Bangalore, Kolar, and Chikkaballapur. This juicy, purple, seed-containing grape is the pride of vineyards in Bangalore. Known for its anti-ageing and anti-cancer properties, it is predominantly used in making red wine, port wine, and grape juice. If you’re on a wine tour in Bangalore, this variety is a must-try during your wine-tasting sessions.
Red globe grapes
These seeded, red-hued grapes are ideal for both snacking and winemaking. Larger than most grape varieties, Red wine grapes have thin skins, firm meat, and a balanced sweetness. They can be enjoyed fresh, dried into raisins, or fermented. Warm climates like those at Rico Wine Park & Vineyards in Karnataka provide ideal conditions for cultivating these beauties.
Crimson seedless grapes
A visual and sensory delight, Crimson Seedless grapes are vivid red, firm, and juicy. These antioxidant-rich berries are fantastic for heart health and cognitive function. Their crisp texture makes them perfect for munching straight off the vine, particularly during a vineyard tour in Bangalore or a leisurely wine-and-dine experience at a local winery.
Thompson seedless
Perhaps one of the most well-known varieties, Thompson Seedless grapes are light green to amber and used widely to make raisins. Originally a part of the Sultana family, they are cultivated extensively in Northern India. Their mild sweetness and soft texture make them great for healthy snacking or pairing with a chilled glass of white wine like Chenin Blanc or Sauvignon Blanc.
Explore the grape journey at Rico Wine Park & Vineyards
For those intrigued by the story behind their wine glass, Rico Wine Park & Vineyards offers a delightful escape into the world of viticulture. Set in the lush landscapes of Karnataka, this vineyard in Bangalore provides immersive wine tours, educational sessions on grape varieties, and relaxing wine tasting in Bangalore events.
Whether you’re planning a birthday celebration, a romantic dine and wine evening, or just a casual day out, a visit to a winery can turn into a memorable sensory journey. From the bold notes of Shiraz wine to the elegance of Cabernet Sauvignon, you’ll discover how each grape variety brings its magic to the bottle.
Conclusion
Grapes may seem like simple fruits, but behind every bunch lies a story of tradition, science, and flavour. Whether enjoyed fresh, as raisins or in the form of luxurious red wine or white wine, these grape varieties are treasures of Indian agriculture. Ready to experience them firsthand? Explore a vineyard Bangalore adventure, sip some fine wine, and celebrate the legacy of this ancient fruit at places like Rico Wine Park & Vineyards—where every grape tells a story.
