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What are Peony Grapes? Types, How to Choose and Store Them

The Muscat grape is renowned for its unique flavor profile, setting it apart from other grape varieties with its exquisite taste and commanding a high price point. What are these grapes, their different types, and how should one go about selecting and storing them?

Administrator

28 July, 2024

Pink Muscat, or Shine Muscat as it is known in Japan, is a famous grape variety originating from the country. Pink Muscat grapes are plump, juicy, and have a thin skin. They may have seeds, but they boast a delicate sweetness and low acid content. To learn more about this fascinating fruit, read on!

1 What is Pink Muscat?

Pink Muscat grapes are predominantly grown in Okayama, Japan, a region renowned for producing high-quality grapes. This juicy and famous variety is a cross between two Japanese grape types, Akitsu-21 and Hakunan, developed by the National Institute of Fruit Tree Science (NIFTS) in Japan back in 1988. However, it only gained wider recognition in Japan in 2006 after years of selective breeding and cultivation.

This grape variety has its origins in Japan, and South Korea has also acquired the variety and cultivates it with strict protocols. All bunches of grapes marketed from this variety must meet the stringent requirements of the GAPS standard set by South Korea’s Ministry of Agriculture.

Pink Muscat Grapes

The harvest season for Pink Muscat typically starts in early June and lasts until the end of October. This grape variety is characterized by its sweet fragrance, large size, and potential presence of seeds. Additionally, Pink Muscat grapes have a long shelf life.

Pink Muscat, a cross between Akitsu-21 and Hakunan

Pink Muscat grapes are cultivated using organic methods, with each vine trained to produce “one branch, one cluster.” As a result, each cluster receives meticulous care and absorbs ample nutrients. To protect the grapes from insect damage, each cluster is wrapped in paper. The grapes are ready for harvest when they reach a sweetness level of 18 or higher.

2 Types of Pink Muscat and Their Price

Muscat of Alexandria

The Muscat of Alexandria is native to the Middle East and boasts the highest sugar content among all Pink Muscat varieties. It has large, round grapes that form long clusters. This variety is often used for winemaking and is commonly served in upscale restaurants.

The harvest season for this variety falls between May (if grown in greenhouses) and October (if grown outdoors). The price per cluster typically ranges from 5,000,000 VND [approximately $214 USD].

Muscat of Alexandria

Shine Muscat

This variety hails from Japan and is characterized by its large grapes, smooth skin, and juicy flesh with a satisfying crunch. Shine Muscat matches the sweetness and sugar content of the Muscat of Alexandria. The harvest season typically falls between late May and October. The price per cluster ranges from 1,500,000 to 2,500,000 VND [approximately $64 to $107 USD].

Shine Muscat

Seto Giants

Although sharing a Japanese origin with Shine Muscat, this variety exhibits distinct characteristics. Seto Giants are distinguished by their light green skin, intense sweetness, refreshing aroma, and slight hint of acidity. They are typically harvested between July and November. This variety is relatively rare and challenging to find in the market. The price per cluster ranges from 2,500,000 to 3,000,000 VND [approximately $107 to $129 USD].

Seto Giants

3 How to Select and Store Pink Muscat Grapes

Selecting Pink Muscat Grapes

When choosing Pink Muscat grapes, look for clusters with smooth, taut, and firm skin, free from any signs of bruising or softening. A thin, white coating may be present on the surface of the grapes, which helps retain moisture and protect against insect damage.

Selecting Pink Muscat Grapes

Storing Pink Muscat Grapes

The ideal way to store Pink Muscat grapes is to refrain from washing them and keep them in the refrigerator at a temperature between 0 and 4 degrees Celsius. Only wash the grapes just before consumption to preserve the natural coating on their surface. While Pink Muscat grapes have a long shelf life, it is recommended to consume them as soon as possible for the best experience.

Storing Pink Muscat Grapes

We hope that through this article, you have gained valuable insights into the renowned Pink Muscat grapes of Japan, along with helpful tips on selecting and storing this extraordinary fruit.

Frequently asked questions

Peony grapes are a unique variety of grape that originates from Japan. They are called so because their shape and color resemble those of peony flowers.

Peony grapes have a very distinct and delicate flavor. They are sweet, with a hint of acidity, and have a refreshing taste. The texture is crisp and juicy, making them a delightful treat.

Yes, there are two main types of peony grapes: the red and the white varieties. The red peony grapes are larger and have a deeper color, while the white peony grapes are smaller and have a pale green to yellow color.

When selecting peony grapes, look for firm, plump, and undamaged grapes. The color should be vibrant, and the stem should be green and fresh-looking. Avoid grapes with signs of wrinkling or discoloration.

Peony grapes are best stored in the refrigerator. Place them in a perforated plastic bag or a paper bag, and they should stay fresh for about a week. For longer storage, you can wash and dry the grapes, then place them in a sealed container or freezer bag and freeze them.