What is the difference between wine grapes and table grapes?

wine grapes

Wine grapes when most people think of grapes, they imagine the fresh, juicy bunches they pick up at the market. But not all grapes are the same. The ones used in winemaking are very different from the table grapes you eat. At Rico Wine Park and Vineyards, one of the most unique destinations for a vineyard tour in Bangalore, guests often ask about these differences during our wine tasting sessions. Let’s explore what sets wine grapes apart from table grapes and why it matters for your favorite glass of red wine, white wine, or port wine.

Size, Skin, and Seeds

Table grapes are ideal for snacking as they are typically large, seedless, and have thin skins. Wine grapes, on the other hand, are much smaller, with thicker skins and seeds. These seeds and skins are essential to the winemaking process as they contain flavours, aromas, and tannins that affect the finished product. That’s why varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon or Chenin Blanc taste so distinctive compared to eating a handful of table grapes.

Sugar and Flavour

Wine grapes are naturally sweeter than table grapes. They are harvested when their sugar levels are high enough to ferment into alcohol. Table grapes, however, are bred for crispness and freshness, not fermentation. This difference is why a sip of Sauvignon Blanc or a glass of Port Wine delivers a complexity that table grapes simply cannot provide.

Varieties with Purpose

At our vineyard in Bangalore, visitors learn that each grape variety has a role in winemaking. For example:

  • Cabernet Sauvignon – bold, full-bodied red wine with strong tannins
  • Sauvignon Blanc – refreshing & crisp white wine
  • Chenin Blanc – ranges from dry to sweet styles, versatile
  • Port Wine – rich, fortified wine, often enjoyed after meals

Table grapes, on the other hand, are grown for eating and are not meant for producing wine due to their lower sugar levels and lack of concentrated flavours.

From Grape to Glass

The journey of wine grapes is very different from table grapes. After harvest, wine grapes are crushed, fermented, and aged at a winery before they are ready to be enjoyed. Table grapes, however, are harvested and shipped directly to markets for consumption.

When you take part in a vineyard tour Bangalore at Rico Wine Park, you’ll see firsthand how these grapes transform into wines that are perfect for a relaxing wine and dine experience.

Experience the Difference at Rico Wine Park

There’s no better way to understand the difference between wine grapes and table grapes than by experiencing it yourself. At Rico Wine Park and Vineyards, you can walk through the wines, visit our winery, and enjoy curated wine tasting sessions. From a bold Cabernet Sauvignon to a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a smooth Chenin Blanc, every pour showcases the magic that only wine grapes can create.

Whether you’re exploring the art of winemaking, indulging in a wine and dine experience, or searching for the perfect spot for a vineyard tour in Bangalore, Rico Wine Park and Vineyard, makes wine education enjoyable and memorable. After all, wine is not just about drinking; it’s about discovering the story behind every grape.