Term for grape varieties which, in contrast to wine grapes, are mainly grown as eating grapes or for the production of sultanas. In ancient times, the Greeks and Romans cultivated special varieties with particularly sweet and large berries, which were the most popular and important fruit not only for the wealthy (alongside figs) but also for the common people. They were not only used for eating, but also as a sweetener for food and drink due to the lack of sugar. Transcaucasia and Central Asia are considered to be the original home. This is where species developed that are considered to be the ancestors of today's table grapes.
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