Grapevine

Agricultural record by Fieldmaster Bram Thornbury

Classification: Fruit Vine
Habitat: Warm, sunny hillsides
Uses: Wine, food

Description

Climbing and spreading, grapevines transform sunny slopes into productive vineyards. The fruit hangs in heavy clusters, ranging from pale green to deep purple depending on variety. Winemaking defines many regional cultures.

Cultivation

Plant rooted cuttings in well-drained soil on south-facing slopes. Train on trellises or arbors. Prune heavily each winter. Requires several years to reach full production.

Uses

Fresh table grapes, dried as raisins, and fermented into wine of endless variety. Grape juice provides non-alcoholic beverage. Leaves stuffed with savory fillings in some cuisines. Seeds yield culinary oil.