Feb 14 • 20:00 UTC 🇧🇷 Brazil Folha (PT)

Exotic table grapes, with imported genetics, are a big bet from the São Francisco Valley

Exotic table grape varieties, such as Cotton Candy and Sweet Black, are gaining popularity among Brazilian vineyard growers in the São Francisco Valley, primarily aimed at the international market.

The São Francisco Valley in Brazil is increasingly becoming known for its exotic table grape varieties, particularly Cotton Candy and Sweet Black, which are cultivated by local viticulturists. These grapes, with their unique flavors and appealing names, are mostly targeted for export, reflecting a growing trend in the region towards high-value agricultural products aimed at international markets. Due to their high demand and price abroad, they find limited availability in the domestic market, primarily appearing in upscale grocery stores and specialty shops.

Historically, Brazilian consumers had limited access to diverse grape varieties, often choosing between only two options: the rosé Niágara and the white Itália. The introduction of seedless grapes is a relatively new phenomenon, with significant advancements occurring since the second half of the 1990s. Researchers from Embrapa Semiárido explain how there has been a strategic move towards developing and cultivating seedless grapes, with the earliest commercial varieties gaining traction between 2012 and 2015, showcasing the impact of genetic improvement research in the region's viticulture.

This shift not only highlights the innovative practices being embraced by grape growers in the São Francisco Valley but also underscores a broader transition within Brazilian agriculture where there is a greater focus on meeting global demands. As the region continues to develop its reputation for high-quality grapes, the implications for local agriculture, economy, and positioning in the international fruit market are significant, suggesting a promising future for the state's viticultural efforts.

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