A retrospection of Indian grape varieties.

Abstract

Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) is largely processed for wine beside it is used for fresh consumption, for making raisins, juice, and grape oil. The existence of grapes in India dates back about 4000 years ago as per the historical evidences. Grape cultivation on a commercial basis is about seven decades old in India and now considered as most remunerative amongst all fruit cultivation in the country. Indian Viticulture is unique as it is being practised in almost all climatic conditions from tropical to temperate and spread over different states of the country. During the 1930s a large number of exotic grape varieties were introduced to the country. Since then various Indian research institutes were involved in the varietal improvement. Besides Indian grape growers also contributed significantly to the varietal improvement by identifying various clones especially from Thompson Seedless and Kishmish Chernyi. A brief account of indigenous grape varieties prevailing in the country is presented here