Wine is a drink that has been enjoyed for centuries, and it all starts with the grape. But obviously not all grapes are created equal, and the grapes used to make wine are different from those you eat as a snack or use in cooking. In this article, we'll look at the difference between table grapes and wine grapes, with a particular focus on wine.
What are table grapes?
Edible grapes, also called table grapes, are the most common type of grape you'll find in your grocery store. They are typically small, sweet, and have thin skins. They come in a variety of colors, including green, red, and purple, and are eaten as a healthy snack or used in cooking and baking.
Some of the most popular varieties include Thompson Seedless, Flame Seedless and Red Globe. These grapes are typically grown for their size, flavor and appearance and are harvested in large quantities to meet consumer demand.
What are wine grapes?
Wine grapes, on the other hand, are grown and cultivated specifically for the production of wine. They are not as sweet as table grapes, have a thicker skin and more seeds. The grapes used for wine production are usually smaller and have a higher acid content than table grapes.
There are hundreds of wine grape varieties, each with its own flavor profile and characteristics. Some of the most popular grape varieties include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. Each grape variety is carefully selected for its ability to produce the desired flavor and aroma in the wine.
The difference in taste and composition between table grapes and wine grapes is due to the different sugar, acid and tannin content. Wine grapes have a higher proportion of acids and tannins, which give the wine its special taste profile.
The difference in cultivation
Another significant difference between table and wine grapes is the way they are grown. Table grapes are typically grown in large quantities on flat land, with irrigation systems to ensure a consistent water supply. They are often grown for maximum yield and treated with pesticides and other chemicals to protect the plants from pests and diseases.
Wine grapes, on the other hand, are often grown on hillsides with well-draining soil. The vines are oriented to grow upwards and the grapes are often hand-picked to ensure they are harvested at the ideal point of ripeness. Additionally, the grapes are usually grown using sustainable farming practices, with an emphasis on organic and biodynamic methods.
The difference in processing
After harvest, the processing of food grapes and wine grapes differs significantly. Food grapes are usually washed, packaged and delivered to grocery stores for immediate consumption. Wine grapes, on the other hand, must go through a complex process before they become wine.
First, the grapes are sorted and destemmed to remove the stems and leaves. They are then crushed to release the juice, which is then fermented in barrels or tanks with the addition of yeast. This process converts the sugar in the grapes into alcohol, creating wine.
The wine is then aged in barrels for varying lengths of time depending on the desired flavor profile. Red wine is often aged longer than white wine because the tannins in the grape skins need time to soften and mellow.
Conclusion
In summary, although table grapes and wine grapes look similar, they are grown and processed very differently. Wine grapes are grown specifically for making wine, while table grapes are intended for consumption and cooking.
