CONCORD GRAPES
How long does it take to find the perfect grape?
If you were to ask Ephraim Wales Bull, the inventor of the Concord grape, he would tell you over 22,000 attempts! The dark purple, aromatic and so-called “perfect grape” was named after Concord, Massachusetts where it was first grown. It’s early ripening, and rich full body flavor is not only perfect for growing in rugged soil where others fruits may not survive, but provides rich flavor and many nutrients!
NOT YOUR AVERAGE GRAPE
Ever try a Concord grape and a traditional grape side by side? Even though they seem to be the same thing according to name alone, they are very different. Concord grapes are much smaller, have thicker skin and a deeper purple pigment. The taste and texture differs greatly as well. Concord grapes have a sweeter, more concentrated flavor and not to mention a seed in the middle! But the seed spitting may be a welcome effort – the darker pigmentation of the Concord grape contains many polyphenols, or plant nutrients, and natural antioxidants providing huge health benefits! Concord grapes are known to more effectively destroy free radicals and decrease inflammation!
GRAPE FOR YOUR HEALTH!
A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition found evidence of grape seed extract and other grape products having a chemo preventive effect, meaning they help to slow the initiation of cancer formation. Concord grapes also provide many cardiovascular benefits helping arteries maintain elasticity and a healthy circulation as well as minimizing the harmful effects of LDL and cholesterol. Not to mention their high vitamin C content helps support a healthy immune system!
WHERE CAN YOU GET THEM?
This deep purple robust fruit can be hard to come by at your local supermarket due to the fact that many are made directly into wine and juice! One of the best places to find concord grapes is at farmer markets or in the local sections of a grocery store. Perhaps the most convenient way is growing them at home! With a sunny spot, a trellis and some small grape vines to get started, this tasty plant can be easily grown and enjoyed in your own backyard!
-
“Health and Nutrition.” Concord Grape Association. N.p., 2014. Web. 7 Aug. 2017.
-
Teeter, Adam. “The Difference Between Wine Grapes And Table Grapes.” Vine Pair. N.p., 2 Sept. 2016. Web. 8 Aug. 2017.
-
Kaur, M., C. Agarwal, and R. Agarwal. “Anticancer and Cancer Chemopreventive Potential of Grape Seed Extract and Other Grape-Based Products.” Journal of Nutrition 139.9 (2009): n. pag. Web. 8 Aug. 2017.
-
Almanac, Old Farmer’s. “Grapes.” Old Farmer’s Almanac. N.p., 2017. Web. 08 Aug. 2017.
