Photo by VIVC - Vitis International Variety Catalogue
Description
Delaware is an old American red grape first propagated in Delaware, Ohio, in the mid-19th century. It is a natural hybrid of the fox grape (Vitis labrusca), summer grape (Vitis aestivalis) and European vinifera. Its small berries come in small bunches, and they are pink to light red, sweet and juicy, with a tender slip skin and a mild American aroma. It ripens early and is used both fresh, especially in Japan, and for fine white and sweet wines.
Characteristics
Red (pink) American hybrid grape; small berries; small bunches; tender slip skin; sweet, juicy flesh; early ripening; high-quality wine and juice; seeded
Growing Tips
Delaware needs deep, fertile, well-drained soil. On anything less, graft it onto a phylloxera-resistant rootstock so the vine grows strongly. Its tender skins crack when it rains during ripening, so a sheltered site or a quick harvest after rain helps.