Description
Velika is a Bulgarian black table grape bred by Ivan Todorov at the Obraztsov Chiflik Institute of Agriculture in Ruse, from a self-pollinated seedling of a Bolgar × Alphonse Lavallée cross made in 1987, and officially recognised in 1997. The elongated berries average about 14 g, larger than any other modern Bulgarian table grape, with black skin under a dense bloom, crunchy flesh and a harmonious flavour. Loose, conical bunches average around 560–600 g and travel well.
Characteristics
Black table grape; very large elongated berries about 14 g; crunchy flesh; small seeds that separate easily; loose conical bunches 560–600 g; ripens around 20 August in Bulgaria; high transportability
Growing Tips
Velika ripens early to mid season, around 20 August in northern Bulgaria after about 130 days. The vine grows strongly, so Bulgarian growers recommend vigour-restraining rootstocks such as SO4 or 41B and a high Guyot or two-plane trellis. Its winter hardiness and disease resistance are typical of European table grapes, so it needs a warm site and a normal spray programme. The berries do not crack, and the fruit stores relatively well in a fridge.