Grapes, table

History Grapes were first cultivated as early as 6000 B.C. in the region between the Black and Caspian Seas near northern Iran. California grape cultivation began in 1769 when Spanish friars established vineyards at the missions to make sacramental wine. In 1839, William Wolfskill, a trapper, planted the first table grape vineyard on lands near present-day Los Angeles. Source: California Table Grape Commission Grapes, table Farmers Columbine Vineyards Today the third and fourth generations of the Caratan family continue to cultivate Marin Caratan's original vineyard, purchased in 1919. More… Season Different varieties of table grapes are available from May through January, Ripeness Grapes are harvested when sweet and ripe so you don’t need to sniff, thump or squeeze to make sure they are ready to eat. Just look for plump clusters that are firmly attached to green stems. Storage Refrigerate grapes until ready to use. Then rinse with cold water and serve, or add to recipes.