Season: September to November

Description: Domesticated grapes originated in Southern Turkey and were culturally important in early civilizations such as Ancient Egypt, Greece, Phoenicia and Rome where they were used for wine and food. Domesticated grapes, which are a type of berry, were brought to North America by the Spanish more than 300 years ago, yet wild North American varieties do exist. Today, most domesticated grapes come from the cultivars of Vitis vinifera. Red grapes contain the antioxidant resveratrol which has been shown to reduce the risk of blood clots, reduce cholesterol and help maintain a healthy blood pressure. Grape picking season takes place in late summer.