Black Finger Grapes have the scientific name Vitis vinifera and belong to the Vitaceae family. This is a seedless grape variety developed through grape-breeding programs in the United States and commonly known by the commercial name Sweet Sapphire. The variety is commercially cultivated in the United States and other regions with suitable climates and is also imported into Vietnam. The grapes have a distinctive elongated finger-like shape, dark purple to black skin, crisp and juicy flesh, a sweet flavor and a light characteristic aroma.
Characteristic Features
The berries are elongated with relatively rounded ends, small to medium in size, and grow in clusters.
The skin is deep purple to dark black, with a firm and glossy surface when properly ripe. The skin should be intact and free from cracks, bruising, or decay.
The flesh is translucent white to slightly greenish, crisp, juicy, and relatively firm. Depending on the variety and source, the fruit may be seedless or contain small seeds.
The cluster stem should remain relatively fresh and firm, with the berries well attached to the cluster and without excessive shedding or signs of fermentation.
Acceptable raw material should be fresh, firm, and intact, free from bruising, decay, mold, juice leakage, or abnormal odors. The grapes should not be excessively shriveled or fermented.
Flavor & Texture
The flesh is crisp, juicy, and characteristically firm. It has a distinct sweetness with a mild fruity aroma and a natural fruity aftertaste. Good-quality grapes should not have excessive sourness, bitterness, or fermented odors.
Uses and Applications
They can be consumed fresh or used in ready-to-eat cut-fruit portions.
They can be used in fruit salads, mixed fruit plates, and desserts.
They can also be used to garnish cakes and desserts or paired with cheese and other fruits.
They can be processed into juice, smoothies, and other grape-based beverages.
Nutritionally, grapes provide water, natural carbohydrates, vitamin K, various vitamins and minerals, and antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols.
