Chapter - 1

ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF

GRAPE FARMING
 CHAPTER 1

Origin And Development Of Grape Farming

1.1 Introduction................................................................... ........................ 1'

1.2 Importance Of Horticulture................................................................. 2

1.3 Scenario At World Level....................................................................... 3

1.4 Scenario At India Level..........................................................................7

1.5 Scenario At Maharashtra Level........................................................... 14

1.6 Scenario At Sangli District Level............................... ........................ 27

1.7 Scenario At Tasgaon Taluka Level.............................. ■....................... 38

1.8 What Is A Grape?........................................................ !....................... 46

1.9 Composition And Uses Of Grapes................................... ................... 48

1.10 Classification Of Grape Varieties 54

 CHAPTER 1

ORIGIN AND DEVELOPMENT OF GRAPE FARMING

1.1 INTRODUCTION

Agriculture is a way of life, a tradition, which for centuries has shaped

thought, outlook culture and the economic life of the people of India.

Agriculture therefore, is and will continue to be central to all strategies for

socio economic development of the country. Rapid growth of agriculture is

essential not only to achieve self-reliance at national level but also for

household food security and to bring about equily; in the distribution of

income and wealth resulting in rapid reduction in poverty levels.

India is known as an agricultural country. About 70 per cent of the

people directly or indirectly depend for survival on agriculture. Before the

middle of the 19th century, Indian farmers cultivated their lands mainly to

satisfy the needs of their own families. They were not required to produce

cash crops for selling in the open market, but at the beginning of the 20th

century Indian formers started producing cash crops like cotton, jute,

sugarcane, oilseeds, fruits and flowers.

Fundamentally, agricultural products are classified in various

categories as given below.

' a. Food grains

1 b. Oil seeds

c. Pulses

1
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 d. Fruits and flowers

1.2 IMPORTANCE OF HORTICULTURE

The varied agro climatic conditions in the country makes it suitable for

growing a wide range of horticultural crops covering fruits, vegetables, roots

and tuber crops, flowers, ornamental, medicinal and aromatic plants, spices,

mushrooms etc. These crops being labour intensive generate increased

employment opportunities for rural masses. Growing of these crops is much

more remunerative as compared to cereals.

Fruits and vegetables have an immense export potential. These are

highly perishable in nature. The prices of these outputs1 during the peak

season of harvest are usually low because of week post harvest infrastructure,

while in lean season they are very high, beyond the reach of the common

consumer.

The Govt, of India being deeply concerned about fluctuating prices of

these perishable agricultural commodities, fruits and vegetables, where it is

not possible to operate price support mechanism (as it is the case of cereals),

constituted a group on perishable agricultural commodities for long term

arrangements to protect the interest of both the producers and consumers,

headed by Dr. M. S. Swaminathan, the then member, Plaiinmg'Commission in

1977.

The Group, in its report submitted to the Govt on 15th May 1981,

recommended that for remunerative returns to the producer and for increasing

2
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the production and productivity of fruits and vegetables. There was an urgent

need for an organisation at the national level, which could exert a healthy

influence on the market, eliminate speculative profits and minimize gap

between the prices received by the producer and those paid by the consumer.

The Group also observed that different aspects of horticulture industry

are looked after by the various departments/organisations at the Central and

State level. It was necessary that a national organisation assist in co­

ordination of activities in these departments and development of horticulture

industry in the country in an integrated manner.

On the acceptance of the recommendations of the Group, National

Horticulture Board was setup by the Government, its headquarters at

Gurgaon. The board was registered under the Societies Registration Act on

3rd April 1984.

1.3 SCENARIO AT WORLD LEVEL

Among the fruits, grape occupies the first position in the world in

terms of area’and production. Viticulture (grape growing) and enology (wine

making) have increased greatly in importance and popularity over the last few

decades. Grapes are not only served as table-fruit in the millions of houses all

over the world but also are greatly valued for its wine-making qualities
i

thereby gaining enormous commercial value.

The history of grape cultivation is as old as that of man. Grape has

originated from Asia Minor, the region between Black and Caspian Seas

I
(Winkler, 1974). That region, most of the botanists agree, is the home of

Vitis-Vinifera, the species from which all cultivated varieties of grapes are

derived before the discovery of North America. From there, culture of grapes

spread both West and East. Before 600 BC the Phoenicians probably carried

vine varieties to Greece, then to Rome, and to Southern France. Probably at

even earlier date, raisin and table grapes were moving around the eastern and

Mediterranean Sea to the countries of North Africa. Grapes spread to the Far

East by way of Persia and India.

Grapes are grown almost everywhere with a reasonably favourable

environment. Although, North America is native habitat of more than 70% of

the grape species of the world, grape production is no longer a monopoly of

the countries with a temperate climate. Experiences in India, Philippines and

other tropical countries have proved beyond doubt that grapes can be grown

profitably in the tropics also.

Grape is probably the earliest fruit grown by man and now definitely

the most widely cultivated across the world.

Grape is one of the most ancient crops known to man. Hyams1 (1954)

traces its antiquity to 7000 BC and states that it was associated with man as a

cultivated plant before wheat and barley. According to De Candolle2 (1886)

die cultivation of grape in Egypt goes back to 4000 BC.

The following countries are main producers of grapes in the World

(Winkler3, 1974)

4
L North America Canada, Mexico, United States, and California.
2 South America Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, Bolivia, Brazil, Peru.
3. Australia Common Wealth of Australia, New Zealand.
4. Africa Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Tunisia, and
Union of South Africa.
5. Europe Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, France,
Czechoslovakia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy,
Luxemburg, Belgium, Holland, Portugal, Romania,
Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Yugoslavia.
6, Asia Cyprus, Turkey, Israel, Syria, Iran, Afghanistan,
Japan, China.
7. Grape In India, Thailand, Taiwan, Colombia, Ethiopia,
Tropics Ecuador, Philippines, Venezuela.

Table 1.1
Area and output of major grape producing countries in the world.
Area Pcrtentagey Percentage
(000 ha). To Total (000 tonnes) to. Total -
Argentina 259 3.38 2728 4.75%
Chile 114 1.49 1527 2.66%
France 895 11.67 7213 12.56%
India 37 0.48 600 1.05%
Iran 245 3.19 1900 3.31%
Italy 899 11.72 9000 15.68%
Portugal 360 4.69 1000 1.74%
South Africa 165 2.15 1670 2.91%
Spain 1200 15.65 4486 7.81%
Turkey 567 7.39 3550 6.18%
USA 307 4.00 5030 8.76%
‘Others 2621 34.18 18706 32.58%
ilWdrld ‘ ^ . 7669 ;ibo.oor; ::sdodbp%>
Source: FAO Year Book 1996

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 The data in the above table shows that Spain, Italy, France stood first,

second and third in respect of area under grape cultivation in the world

respectively; while India’s share is only 0.48 percent to the total. In terms of

production Italy, France and USA stood first, second and third respectively

while India’s share in total production is 1.05 percent.

Table 1.2
Per Hectare Productivity of Grapes

Productivity5;
(Tonnes/ha)
Iran 5.20
Korea 9.00
Japan 11.00
Jordan 10.00
Switzerland 14.70
USA 15.60
Germany 19.00
India 21.70
Netherlands 27.00
Israel 16.00
Source: Shanmugavelu K. G. 1998, Viticulture In India, Agro Botanica p. 6

An analysis of the per-hectare productivity in respect of grape reveals

an interesting picture. The Indian productivity pa* hectare is far higher than

many of the European and other producers thereby establishing the Indian

capability as an efficient producer. Apparently it .may be due to the intensive

cultivation practices adopted by the Indian growers that has caused this

spectacular achievement.
1

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1.4 SCENARIO AT INDIA LEVEL

In India grape is known since a very remote period. Dutt cited by

Watt4 (1893) states that grape has been mentioned by Susruta and Charaka in

their ancient medical treaties entitled “Susruta Samhita” and “Charak

Samhita”. Dr. D. S. Triveda5 in his book Indian Chronology (1963), places

the period of Susruta and Charaka between 1356 and 1220 BC. Kautilya, in

his Arthashastra, written perhaps in the fourth century BC, mentioned the type

of land suitable for grape growing. Grapes are grown in a variety of climates

and soils and more than 80 per cent of the area under grape in our country is

in the tropical region.

We find references to grapes in Sanskrit literature. Grapes were

known to ancient Aryas. They not only knew the cultivation, but also seem to

have had knowledge: about how to make different kinds of beverages out of it.
i

Evidence of its cultivation in India in 1300 AD are available from some

invaders from Afghanistan and Persia. During the historic event of changing

the capital from Delhi to Daulatabad by Mohammed-Biri-Tughlak grape was

introduced into South in 14th century. Ibn Batuta (1430) a Moorish traveler

reported of having seen well maintained vineyards in India.

Mogul emperors gave considerable importance for grape culture. As a

result in 17th century, viticulture reached its peak in the Deccan during the
*

regime of Aurangzeb. With the fall of Mogul empire viticulture in North

entered into declining phase.

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 In 1832, grape was introduced into Madras by French Priest at Melpatti

and Michaeipatti villages. It was introduced into Mysore during the same

period. Since this period grape culture became more popular in South India.

Three varieties of grapes appear to have been introduced in 1338 and

were known as Abi or Bokhari Fakhri and Sahebi. Akbar-the-great and

Jahangir introduced more varieties into different tracts of Mogul Empire.

Kabul, Kandahar, Kashmir, Sindh and Punjab became important centres

of grape cultivation. In the Deccan grape cultivation reached the Zenith of its

glory during the time of later Moguls especially Aurangzeb. The grape

cultivation then extended throughout to Daulatabad. Another great stimulus

was given to the grape cultivation by Portuguese Christian Missions at

Aurangabad. Liberal grants were given by the early Bijapur and Ahmednagar

kings about the year 1550.

Under the patronage of Peshwas of Pune, the industry .flourished in

Maratha Empire for hundred years 1717 to 1817. Later an added impetus was

given with some educated and progressive growers in the field.

Commercial grape cultivation in India is of recent origin. Major

efforts at grape cultivation before and after the independence did not succeed

due to lack of ‘vinifera’ varieties ripening earlier to the rainy season. Grape

cultivation was supposed to be non-viable proposition in the tropics during

those days. Today, however, grape is one of the most remunerative fruits in

India. Its production, productivity and quality have won international

8
appreciation. The highest productivity of grape per unit area has also been

recorded in the tropical regions of India.

Grape Growing Regions

Grape cultivation in India is distinctly different from the cultivation

elsewhere. Grape being a temperate fruit crop, undergoes dormancy during

the winter in temperate regions and the sub-tropical regions where the winters
»>

are severe and temperatures reach freezing point. In India, it is grown under

two distinct climatic conditions

1. The sub-tropical climatic conditions of North where the winter

temperatures rarely reach the freezing point but vines undergo dormancy

in winter.

2. The tropical climatic conditions of the peninsular India where the winters

are mild and the vines do not undergo dormancy and remain evergreen

throughout.

In the peninsular India, the viticultural practices in relation to the

pruning and the varieties grown are different in different regions depending

upon the season of rainfall. Based on the viticulture practices and the

incidence of rainfall the grape growing are classified into'three.

• Region I

The mild temperate to subtropical region comprising Punjab, Haryana,

Uttar Pradesh and Delhi. This region receives rain during June-September,

9
June being the beny ripening period in this region. The rain in June damages

particularly in Vinifera varieties with high sugar content in the berries and

long ripening period such as ‘Thompson Seedless’. In view of the short

ripening period available, early maturing variety “Perlete” and “Beauty

Seedless” are very popular. Vines undergo dormancy, from November to

February due to cold weather. Grape vines are pruned only once in this

region and only one crop is harvested in a year.

• Region II

This region comprises parts of peninsular India receiving rain during

June-September from the Southwest monsoon. This region covers the

Telangana and Raylseema regions of Andhra Pradesh, Nashik, Pune, Solapur,

Satara, Sangli, Bhir, Aurangabad and Ahmednagar districts of Maharashtra,

Bijapur, Gulburga, Raichur, Bellaiy districts of Karnataka. Summers are dry

and are suited for good quality vinifera varieties. The risk of berry cracking

and rotting is relatively nil. Vines do not undergo dormancy in this region.

They are pruned twice but only one crop is harvested in a year. The important

vinifera varieties grown in this region are ‘Aneb-e-Shahi’ and ‘Thompson

Seedless’. Since this is the most potential region for the cultivation of quality

grape area under grape in this region is fast expanding.

• Region III

This region comprises all the grape-growing areas of Tamil Nadu, and

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districts of Bangalore, Kolar, Mysore and Tumkur of Karnataka. This region

receives rainfall during May-November from both South-West and North-

East monsoons. Certain vinifera varieties such as ‘Bhokri’, ‘Anab-e-shahi’

and Gulabi and the Labrusca hybrid, Bangalore Blue which am less

susceptible to berry cracking and rotting due to rains during the ripening

period am grown widely in this region. Vines do not undergo dormancy in

this region. Therefore, they are pruned twice and two crops are harvested in a

year. ‘Bangalore Blue’ variety is harvested almost throughout the year by

staggering the pruning in Bangalore district of Karnataka and five harvests in

two years are also practiced in ‘Gulabi’ grape in Madurai district of Tamil

Nadu by continuous pruning and harvesting.

The Grape is a highly remunerative crop and its successful culture calls j

for thorough knowledge, skill and experience. Besides heavy investment, it

requires veiy close attention and careful nursing. In spite of this being a very

high value crop people are enthusiastically coming forward to allot some area

from their limited land holding for grape cultivation. Growing grapes has

been successful even with very light soil thus providing gainful employment

for large number of rural population all round the year.

The Indian grape research started sometimes early in the beginning of

present century and in the course of hundred years a fund of knowledge is

added in understanding the grape culture.

In 1991-92, total area under grape cultivation in India was 32400

hectares with a total annual production of 668200 tonnes. Total area under

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grape cultivation has increased upto 42600 hectares, with a total annual

production of 1082700 tonnes during the year 1998-99. Maharashtra tops the

list with 24700 hectares. Followed by Karnataka 7500 hectares Punjab 2500

hectares Tamil Nadu 2300 hectares Andhra Pradesh 1800 hectares and

Haryana 1200 hectares in 1998-99.

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 Tablel.3
Statewise Area, Production and Yield of Grapes 1998-99
Ifield--
(mhip
1. Andhra 1.8 4.23 45.0 4.16 25.0
Pradesh
2. Haryana 1.2 2.82 9.1 0.84 7.6
3. Karnataka 7.5 17.60 226.6 20.93 30.2
4. Maharashtra 24.7 57.98 682.4 63.02 27.6
5. Punjab 2.5 5.87 67.1 6.20 26.8
6. Tamil Nadu 2.3 5.40 50.1 4.63 21.7
7. Other 2.6 6.10 2.4 0.22 0.92
8. India 42.6 100.00 1082.7 100 25.4
Source: Agriculture:- Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, Nov. 2000 PP
331-334

Data in table no.‘ 1.3 shows that Maharashtra stands first and Karnataka

stands second in terms of area under grape cultivation, as well as production

of grapes. In terms of productivity of grapes per hectare Karnataka stands

first and Maharashtra stands second. The percentage of area under grape

cultivation in Maharashtra is the highest i.e. 57.98 percent, while it is lowest

i.e. 2.82 percent in Haryana. It also implies that, the percentage of production

of grapes in Maharashtra is the highest i.e. 63.02 percent while it is the lowest

(i.e. 0.84 percent) in Haryana.

1.5 SCENARIO AT MAHARASHTRA LEVEL .

As the frontiers of the Mogul rule extended west work, grape culture

advanced along and gradually spread to Ahmednagar, Daulatabad and Jalna

regions of Maharashtra.

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 Concerted efforts were made in Maharashtra and Mysore to rehabilitate

the grape cultivation. In 1921 Ganeshkhind Fruit Research Centre was

established at Pune for promoting horticulture.

The development of Selection Seven by Dr. Cheema in Maharashtra in

1928 and Anab-e-shahi firstly introduced in Hyderabad by Mr. Abdul Bequer

Khan from west Asia about the year 1890 sparked off a wave of

unprecedented enthusiasm for extension of the states.

After 1940 many varieties of grape i.e. Dabuki, Kali Sahebi, Pandhari

Sahebi were brought from abroad. Shri Gole established “Adarsh Godreja

Mala” in 1930 near Nasik and planted various varieties, of grapes.

In 1950 Gopalkrishrian, Director of Horticulture, Maharashtra

Government, made great efforts to popularise grape cultivation in

Maharashtra.

The Maharashtra Grape Grower’s Association was established in the

year 1960 at Baramati. Later it was shifted to Pune for offering services,

guidance and all help possible to the grape growers of the state. The area

under grape at that time was only 1000 hectares, whereas, it has increased to

26900 hectares with annual production of 600000 M.T. Out of total

production 4 percent (24000 M.T.) is exported to Midle East countries and

European markers as table grapes, 25 percent (1,50,000 M.T.) is used for

raisin making while the remaining 71 percent sold within the country as a

fresh table grapes. On small area grapes are also grown for wine production

and the total production of wine is about 1500 M.T. annually.

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 The founder member of Maharashtra State Grape Growers Association

was Shri D.G. Shembekar. The association was registered under the Public

Trust Act. The Society was duly approved with the following specific

objectives.

1. To promote grape cultivation in Maharashtra.

2. To enlighten farmers on the prospects of grape crops in the State.

3. To provide technical guidance to the grape growers in setting up

grape plantation.

4. To offer advice to grape growers to take appropriate plant

protection measures.

5. To import essential inputs like plant hormones, fertilizers decay

retardant paper, etc. for distribution among the grape growers on

no-profit no-loss basis.

6. To undertake study and research on different aspects of crop

improvement in grapes, both quantitatively as well as qualitatively

and to reduce the cost of cultivation of the crop by using latest

agro-techniques.

7. To introduce new and more vigorous varieties of grapes by

mutation processes and cross-fertilization.

8. To undertake publication of bulletins, periodicals, books and

reports on grape seminars.

The establishment of Agricultural University at Rahuri in 1968

accelerated research and development in grape cultivation j iding guidance

16
and technical help to grape cultivators. Whole hearted support has been

received from scientists from IIHR Banglaore, Mahatma Phule Agriculture

University Rahuri, National Research Centre for grapes, Manjari, Pune and

also scientists from California University, USA and Australia by Maharashtra

Grape Grower's Association Pune.

Social and political personalities like Ravasaheb Gaikwad, Raobahdoor

Baravake, Shembekar, Vasantro Arve, Dagadulal Bothara, Ganpatrao Mehtre,

and Nanasaheb Kale made tremendous efforts for the spread of grape

cultivation in Maharashtra.

Now, the traditional grape varieties like Bhokari and Fakadi have

become extinct and the cultivators are mainly interested to grow new varieties

like Thompson seedless, Sonaka and Tas-A-Ganesh.

Following seedless varieties of grape are cultivated in Maharashtra for

table fruit purposes.

1. Thompson Seedless
2. Tas-A-Ganesh
These are mutants located by
3. Sonaka > growers in Thompson seedless
variety.
4. Manik Chaman
5. KismisChomi.
6. Sharad seedless
7. Flame seedless.

Below mentioned varieties of grape are cultivated for raisin making

1. Tas-A-Ganesh

2. Sonaka

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 3. Manik Chaman

4. Thompson seedless

5. Arkawati

6. Mam Seedless.

Table No-1.4
Grapes - Maharashtra - Area, yield, production.

.Area%;~ TrodiiefiOn:
SStai;
'I'Percedt'::-.'?- ''-PeixentrC'K. Percent
i 5306 13.8 733
2 4396 12.5 550
3 6739 15.5 1041.2
4 7242 22.4 1580.4
5 11762 C"" 17 ’ 1996.1
6 15210 16.1 2454.6 23.44 3.13 27.34
7 15292 18.7 2861.1
8 15726 23.9 3757.8
9 16631 24.3 4042.8
10 21085 22 4631
11 28012 24.7 6920.9 12.99 8.94 23.03
12 27813 27.4 7625.3
13 24704 22.7 5601.1
14 26973 25.3 6832.5 -1.25 0.80 -0.43
R(A,P) 0.982959
R(A,Y) 0.813794 Cgi= 13.32 4.77 18.73
R(Y,P) 0.872539
Time-1985-86 to 1998-99
Cov 1.017005922 0.35711 1.377087
Varx 16.25
Source: Districtwise Agricultural Statistical Information of Maharashtra, Part
11-1999, PP 161, Office of the Commissioner, Agriculture, Pune.

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 Data in Table 1.4 shows that, in 1985-86,area under grape cultivation

in Maharashtra was 5306 hectares. It has increased upto 26973 hectares

during the year 1998-99. Average yield of grape in Maharashtra has

increased from 13.8 tonnes per hectare to 25.3 tonnes per hectare in above

period while production has increased from 73300 M.T. to 683250 M.T. in

the same period.

Overall compound growth rate of area under grape cultivation in above

period (1985-86-1998-99) is 13.32 percent. In case of yield of grapes it is

4.77 percent, in case of production it is 18.73 percent. During the period from

1985-86 to 1990-91 the compound growth rate of area under grape cultivation

was 23.44 percent, in case of average yield it was 3.13 percent, in case of

production it was 27.34 percent.

During the period from 1990-91 to 1995-96 the compound growth rate

of area under grape cultivation was 12.99 percent, in case of average yield it

was 8.94 percent while in case of production it was 23.03 percent.

During the period from 1995-96 to 1998-99 the compound growth rate

of area under grape cultivation was -1.25 percent, in case of average yield it

was 0.80 percent, while in case of production it was -0.43 percent.

If compared with the compound growth rate of area under grape

cultivation of the earlier period (i.e. 1985-86 to 1990-91), die compound

growth rate of area under grape cultivation is smaller during the next period

(i.e. 1990-91 to 1995-96) and is even minus during the last period (i.e. 1995-

96 to 1998-99). This has happened because initially several factors

19
contributed to the sudden growth of area under grape cultivation as farmers

shifted from sugarcane cultivation to grape cultivation.

At the same time it is very significant that when compound growth rate

of average yield of grapes remained only 3.13 during the initial period, it

became 8.94 percent during the next period (i.e. 1990-91 to 1995-96) thereby

showing that with the sophisticated use of inputs, the average yield increased.

Above Table also implies that there is positive correlation between

Area and Production, Area and average yield, average yield and production.

Graph 1.1
GRAPES (MAHARASHTRA) - AREA
AREA (hect)

1985-86 to 1998-99

20
 Graph 1.2
GRAPES (MAHARASHTRA) - AVERAGE YIELD
8
NJ
cn
AVG. YIELD (tons/ha)
CM
o cn
cn

0 ......... L \——"T* "-n—■—i---------- r 1 ■ , " — -" -'”1—

T" — ji t t r*' jt —i---------- i------------

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
time 1985-86 to 1998-99
«
a _
C/5
m

1/5
=
>
0X

■*
H

NJ 1
-M
cn

cn
•fc.

w
CO
CM

co

00

Cn

time 1985-86 to 1998-99

21
 In state of Maharashtra grape cultivation and marketing is established

on sound footing. It has proved greatly helpful in improving the economy of

the grape growers. However, there is still scope for further development in

the business.

In the state of Maharashtra Nasik, Sangli, Solapur, Pune and

Ahmednagar are major grape producing districts. These five districts produce

94.62 percent of total production of die state. The remaining grape producing

districts are Satara, Kolhapur, Aurangabad, Beed, Osmanabad, and Dhule.

Maharashtra Rajya Draksha Bagaitdar Sangh, Pune, has been set-up for the

benefit of grape growing pockets in Maharashtra. For its administrative

purpose, the grape growing pockets are as follows.

1. Nasik Pocket - This pocket includes Nasik, Ahmednagar, Dhule and

Jalgaon districts.

2. Sangli Pocket - Sangli, Kolhapur and adjoining part of Belgaum

(Karnataka) districts are included in this pocket.

3. Pune Pocket - This pocket includes Pune and Satara districts.

4. Solapur Pocket - Solapur, Osmanabad, Aurangabad and Beed districts are

included in this pocket.

The phenomenal success in grape culture has been possible only

because of the research support to the grape industry by the ICAR and

perseverance of the grape growers. Research on grape was intensified in

India soon after independence at IARI, New Delhi, in the late fifties. Later on,

systematic work on grape breeding production technology and utilisation was

22
 started at IIHR, Bangalore during 1969. National Research Centre was

established at Manjari (Rune) in the year 1997 to conduct research exclusively

on grape. Several non-government organisations like Maharashtra

Association of Cultivation Science Pune are also conducting some research on

grape. As a result, lot of information on various aspects of grape cultivation

has been generated.

Table-1.5
District wise Area, Average Yield and Production of Grapes in
Maharashtra 1998-99.
Areaha^; Percentage,; Average Production Percentage
{tototal Tonnes ^ {to. total
•-iireav— ins/tiU production;
Nasik 16263 60.46 23.10 375400 54.94
Sangli 5573 20.72 34.30 191150 27.98
Solapur 1470 5.46 24.40 35908 5.26
Pune 755 2.80 27.40 20700 3.02
Ahmednagar 1020 3.79 22.90 23361 3.42
Satara 354 1.32 16.60 5870 0.82
Osmanabad 300 1.12 17.00 5700 0.75
Aurangabad 113 0.42 17.00 1920 0.28
Dhule 205 0.76 0.78 160 0.02
Kolhapur 71 0.26 18.00 1280 0.19
Others 776 2.89 28.87 22401 3.28
Total 26900 100.00 25.40 683250 100.00
Source - Districtwise Agricultural Statistical Information of Maharashtra
Part II1999 PP-162.

Table 1.5 shows that in 1998-99 in Maharashtra area under grape

cultivation was 26900 hectares and total production of 683250 tonnes. It is

seen that the share of Nasik District in area and production is the highest i.e.

23
r
60.46 percent and 54.94 percent respectively. Share of Sangli district in area

and production is 20.72 percent and 27.98 percent respectively. The district

of Sangli stands second in rank with regard to area under grape cultivation

and production of grapes. It is clear that share of Nasik and Sangli district in

area and production of grape is about 81 percent. Average yield of grapes in

Maharashtra state is 25.4 tonnes per hectare. Which is significantly on the

higher side.

24
 Graph 1.4
DISTRICTWISE AREA UNDER GRAPE CULTIVATION - 1998-99

Nasik Sangli
60 46% 20.72%

So lapur
5 46%

P une
280%
Others A hmednagar
6.77% 379%

Graph 1.5
DISTRICTWISE PERCENTAGE OF PRODUCTION OF GRAPES
1998-99

Nasik
54.96%

Sangli
27.99%

Others
5.34% Solapur
5.26%
Ahmednagar
Pune
3.42%
3.02%

25
VO
CN
1.6 SCENARIO AT SANGLI DISTRICT LEVEL

In Sangli District, first attempt at grape cultivation was made by Shri

Pachure, a rich farmer of village Nandre in 1958. He used the seeds of

varieties of Bhokari and Phakadi. The area of grape cultivation particularly in

Tasgaon Taluka, which has become now the main centre of grape cultivation

and grape research. In Sangli district the emphasis is on Thompson seedless,

Tas-A-Ganesh and Sonaka with scientific method of cultivation.

In 1972 "Vaidnanik Drakshakul" was established in Sangli district at

Borgaon of Tasgaon Taluka. The branch of Maharashtra Rajya Draksha

Bagaitdar Sangh in Sangli was established in 1978, named as Draksh Bhavan

later. The association was undertaking activities like supply of import

chemicals, provision of timely communication from head office to the

members publication of grape enterprise marketing, conducting training

classes with the help of experts for the members of the organisation, provision

of other inputs and services and the needed consultancy services for the

members. i
i
i

It is concluded that as a result of the efforts of this district organisation

!
the grape growers were well acquainted with the latest development in
I

technology of grape production. i

^ i

It is found that the association's Sangli branch office was playing a

very significant and need-based role particularly in respect of die import of

chemicals, supply of inputs, publications, timely communication, training and

27
also the development of the research facilities in Sangli district The name

Tasgaon Chaman had become famous all over India and abroad.

Table 1.6
Grapes - Sangli District
Area, yield, production

Time,;! Area/'-}'- j
Mis Titdn.hSVA? 'Pej-cehi":? Percent^: t
1 1062 7.8 82.8
2 889 9.8 86.8
3 1062 13.4 142.5
4 1391 24.2 336.7
5 2234 20.4 455.8
6 2535 20.3 516.9 19.0065 21.0822 44.23652
7 2536 21.9 555.3
8 2660 27.1 721.8
9 2720 31.4 856.5
10 3142 26.1 819.6
11 4145 39 1618.1 10.33 13.95 25.64
12 4080 31.5 1285.2
13 4164 22.7 946.8
14 5573 34.3 1911.5 10.37 -4.19 5.71
R(AP) 0.959865
R(AY) 0.811539 Cgr= 13.60 12.06 27.31
R(Y.P) 0.891052
Time-1985-86 to 1998-99
cov 0.934627 0.655781 1.59119
Varx 16.25

Source - Districtwise Agricultural Statistical Information of Maharashtra

part II1999.

28
 2 S
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55
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05

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r
AREA(Hect)

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00
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00
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05
ft

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r
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Avg.Yield(Tonns/Hect.)
^o
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o
♦
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T—-
--
--
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4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15

TIME 1985-86 to 1998-99

29
 Graph 1.8
GRAPES (SANGLI DIST.f
PRODUCTION - 1985-86 TO 1998-99

TIME 1985-86 to 1998-99

_____________________________ ____________ ________________

Data in Table 1.6 shows that in 1985-86, the area under grape

cultivation in Sangli district was 1062 hectares. It has increased up to 5573

hectares during the year 1998-99. Average yield of grape in Sangli district

has increased from 7.8 tonnes per hectare to 34.3 tonnes per hectare in above

period while production has increased from 8280 M.T. to 191150 M.T. in the

same period.

Overall, compound growth rate of area under grape cultivation in

above period (1985-86 - 1998-99) is 13.60 percent incase of yield of grapes it

is 12.06 percent, while in the case of production it is 27.31 percent.

30
 Above table also implies that there is positive correlation between area

and production, Area and average yield, average yield and production.

31
 CN
cn

OS © r-H cn i < r~ VO 11 o
r^ r-*1 OV it o o
cn cn vd ■vt 1-^ t—1
'St cs f-H

:ci ?->©"' Uj-

O o o o tn cn m cn
»-r 00 t- o r-~ r- vo 1 o
;S5^'-vWc-5 00 •*t oo cs cn cs l—*4
CN r~4 VO

o tn o o o in I1 T—1
cs s—< cn o o cs VO m
m o r-~ cs cn cs o
ip£v#* cs rH m
Talukawise Grape Cultivation in Sangli District

v-y^ y -
V^. I1?

o «n o o in o in 11 m
o o in t'- in VO
oo VO cs VO in
CN '“t
Table No. 1.7

o «n o o in o VO
«n cs ■s- o m cs o cn
-/-/-*!' 'rg7v’ o r~ m CS VO cs
cs xj- - Agriculture Section - Zilha Parishad Sangli (1999-2000)
-vr-gt'ifev::-
* /. •*.

'v.S'.T.'Jt# S-" Jju> *

*•*■1
o o o o o © o sr-H
t-h «n VO o cs o o o -st
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cs ■Vt

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;->■> oo; cn «n o o C" o o VD
VO o r- m VO cs 1 O
00 m cs OV
r—<
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S-4 *c3
- ' -'-vT?: •'c-s'X *■ a p <u ^4
• *■4
-y'-sai-M-y 2 •*TI
£ eO
nf "T3
CO •a
& £ *2
- s-»
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Ih § cd O
tn T3 s| •C • irH £—4
08 c3 $ 43
H S S*J £ (Z)

“c5
Source

. r“H cs cn m VO r-- 00

CO

/
 Table No 1.7 shows that area under grape cultivation of Sangli district

increased from 1906 hectares to 6103 hectares during 1987-88 to 1999-2000

period. Taluka wise grape cultivation distribution shows that share of Tasgaon

Taluka in grape cultivation is the highest i.e. 47.19 percent while Shirala

Taluka is without grape cultivation.

Out of eight talukas share of Tasgaon, Miraj and Khanapur Taluka is

84.40 percent while, share of Walva, Kavathe Mahankal, Jath, Atpadi is of only

IS.60 percent. Grape cultivation in Sangli district is concentrated in Tasgaon

Miraj and Khanapur talukas.

In 1987-88 area under grape cultivation in Tasgaon Taluka was only 834

hectares while in 1999-2000. It has recorded 2880 hectares. Miraj Taluka it

has increased from 565 hectares to 1470 hectares in the same period. In

Khanapur Taluka it has increased from 100 hectares to 800 hectares in above

period.

33
 Graph 1.9
TALUKAW1SE PERCENTAGE OF AREA UNDER GRAPE
CULTIVATION -1999-2000

T asgaon

34
 TALUKAW1SE GRAPE CULTVATION
IN SANGLI DISTRICT
1999 -2000

35
 The world production of the grape is about 60 million tonnes. The

contribution is about 0.7 per cent of the world production where as Lidia's share

in export of grapes is 0.30 percent only.

Sangli district has been exporting grapes to gulf and European countries.

Thompson seedless Sonaka and Tas-A-Ganesh varieties are mainly exported to

middle East countries and Europe. Nearly 85 percent of our grape export is to

Europe and especially to London. Sangli's share in the total export of

Maharashtra is near about 30 percent. There is a big demand for quality grapes

from the Sangli districts, which fetch higher prices to the grape cultivators.

Table 1.8
Exports of Grapes from Sangli District and From India.

.:-3Tear:;’-V iQuantity(M.T.) Quaiqitity-C yaluejRs.

SangliDist. ‘ total V-V Grs. India
1989-90 350 9.09 3842 6.23
1993-94 3800 23.75 16000 33.90
1994-95 4350 25.59 17000 40.48
1995-96 6325 28.23 22400 53.57
1996-97 6500 30.95 21000 52.48
1997-98 6900 29.99 23000 66.00
1998-99 — — 11525 37.89
Source - DGCIS Ministry of Commerce and APEDA. (2000)

Table 1.8 reveals that export of grapes from Sangli district as well as

from India has been increasing during the period of 1989-90 tol997-98. Share

of Sangli district in India's export has increased from 9.09 percent to 29.99

percent in the above period. The exports of grapes from India rose from 3842

36
tonnes valued at Rs. 6.23 crores to 23000 tonnes valued at Rs. 66 crore during

the period of 1989-90 to 1997-98. During the period of 1989-90 to 1997-98 the

compound growth rate of export of grapes from Sangli district was 45.16

percent. While at India level it was 25.6 percent.

Graph 1.10
EXPORT OF GRAPES FROM SANGLI D1ST.
(Tonnes)

□ Sangli □ India

Chile, Italy and Greece are the major producers of grape in the world.

Chile dominates the world market with exports of 43 percent of grapes

annually. Indian exports of grapes account for only 0.6 percent of total world

trade in grapes. There is great scope for improvement in exports of grapes

from India as some of the varieties of Indian grapes are of premium quality. It

is estimated that in a few years, it should be possible for India to account for at

least 5 percent of world export.

37
1.7 SCENARIO AT TASGAON TALUKA LEVEL

The pioneering work done by late Shri Vasantrao Arve and Ganpati

Shankar Mhetre caused the spread of grape cultivation in Sangli district. In the

year 1960 Dagadulal Dhanaraj Bothara, a rich farmer and trader started die

grape cultivation in Tasgaon who brought seed plants from Shri M. C. Mehata

of Nipani. First he cultivated the variety of Bhokari in one acre with Kniffen

method. He was inspired mainly by Shri Pachure of Nandre, Bhave ofSoni

Padgaon and some others like Kirolskar and Budhageonkar from adjoining

villages.

Later in the year 1965-66 another farmer Shri Ganpati Shankar Mhetre

of Tasgaon started grape cultivation with selection 7 and Bhokari varieties. He

is popularly called as Aaba. Shri Vasantrao Arve of Borgaon first introduced

the variety of Thompson seedless in the year 1965. In 1968 planting of

Thompson seedless became successful on a commercial basis. In 1977 Shri

Vasantrao Arve developed "Tas-A-Ganesh" a new variety of grape on the lines

of Thompson seedless.

It is already noted that Tasgaon is a region with moderate rainfall.

Local grape growers made significant improvements in their grape cultivation

methods Tasgaon grape growers established a separate Research Laboratory at

Borgaon of Tasgaon Taluka. It became model even to State sponsored

agricultural universities in the State.

38
 The name Tasgaon Chaman became popular all over India and abroad.

Tasgaon Chaman means the grapes of standardized quality cultivated by the

grape growers of Tasgaon Taluka.

Table 1.9
Area under Grape Cultivation in Tasgaon Taluka.
Year Area (ha.)
1966-67 200
1987-88 834
1993-94 2010
1994-95 2050
1995-96 2100
1998-99 2520
1999-2000 2880
Source - Season and crop Report Tahsil office Tasgaon sample No
20

Table 1.9 shows that area under grape cultivation in Tasgaon Taluka

increased from 200 hectares in 1966-67 to 2880 hectares in 1999-2000.

Graph 1.11
AREA UNDER GRAPE CULTIVATION IN TASGAON TALUKA
Area (Hectares)

1966-67 1987-88 1993-94 1994-95 1995-96 1998-99

Year

39
 Table 1.10
Circlewise Distribution of Grape Cultivation

Im&mr
1. Savlaj 448 450 660 697 24.20
2. Tasgaon 276 281 392 525 18.23
3. Manerajuri 212 214 462 466 16.18
4. Visapur 158 160 176 396 13.76
5. PolllC
r diua 224 245 276 276 9.58
6. Bhilwadi 107 110 104 49 1.70
7. Yelavi 407 410 450 471 16.35
Total 1832 1870 2520 2880 100.00
Source - Season and crop report Tahsil office Tasgaon sample No-20.

Table No 1.10 shows 1hat area under grape cultivation in Savlaj circle is

highest i.e. 24.20 percent while it is lowest in Bhilwadi circle i.e. 1.70 percent.

Out of seven circles share of Savlaj, Tasgaon Manerajuri, Visapur share circle

is 72.37 percent. While share of Palus, Bhilwadi and Yelavi circle is 27.63

percent. It implies that eastern circles of Tasgaon Taluka contribution 3/4 area

of grape cultivation while Western circles of Tasgaon Taluka contributes 1/4

area of grape cultivation.

40
 Graph 1.12
TASGAQN TALUKA - C1RCLEW1SE DISTRIBUTION OF GRAPE
CULTIVATION - 1999-2000

Manerajuri
Tasgaon 16.18%

Visapur
13.76%

Palus
9.58%

Bhilw adi
1.70%

41
140.13
A
 CIRCLEWISE DISTRIBUTION OF
GRAPE CULTIVATION
1998-99 - - r ^
/ -, >
l / \

> -----", -v j' ) t

i v d w I s '- ’
\ MANpA-JORC;'^

AREA IN HECTARES
V-r-t U
xaaa V
500 - - -
, (
TALUKA BOUNDARY
CIRCLE BOUNDARY
C Km.
VILLA&E BOUNDARY
RIVER & NALA

42
 Table No-1.11
Area under total cultivation and grape cultivation of Tasgaon city and
Selected Villages 1990-91 to 1999-2000

■'SrC
Sio.- ■'i? :• \ T*erceh&ge
Gdltiyatidu--: :io tototal;'
1. Borgaon 2186.91 72.03 3.29 126.78 5.80
2. Chinchani 2270.76 45.88 2.02 121.57 5.35
3. Dhavali 1029.05 12.01 1.17 39.87 3.87
4. Manerajuri 4247.56 86.94 2.04 187.82 4.42
5. Nimani 713.00 28.62 4.01 46.15 6.47
6. Palus 1984.52 37.67 1.90 90.44 4.56
7. Savalaj 2768.95 82.77 2.99 237.48 8.58
8. Savarde 1434.93 39.84 1 2.78 88.24 6il5
9. Tasgaon 3909.91 61.90 1.58 176.97 4.53
Source: Season and Crop Report, Sample No. 20, Circle Offices of Tasgaon
Taluka

Table No. 1.11 shows that the area under grape cultivation is very less as

compared to the total area under cultivation. The average of area under grape

cultivation of villages is 2.31 percent in 1990-91. While in year 1999-2000, it

increased to 5.53 percent. The area under grape cultivation is minimum (12.01

ha) in Dhavali. On the other hand it was maximum (86.94 ha) in Manerajuri in

the year 1990-91. But in year 1999-2000 Savalaj has maximum (237.48 ha)

area under grape cultivation and Dhavali has minimum (39.87 ha) area under

grape cultivation.

43
 Graph 1.13
AREA UNDER GRAPE CULTIVATION
1990-91 AND 1999-2000
Area under grape cultivation

&
rf > #
<&<&>
#
ar
^
o'*
^ >
Jr <$■
.6® J
c?
J**
<t> ^
Q <f
cT
v
J-
& ^ <t C& rJg
6
< °

Villages 0 1990-91 0 1999-2000

44
 A R EA UNDER GRAPE CULTIVATION IN
TASGAON C ITY AND SELECTED VILLAGES
1999-2000

O -----J
t* I

AREA IN HECTARES

— 300
---------- TALUKA BOUNDARY -- 100
« Km.
VILLAGE BOUNDARY
RIVER ft NALA

45
1.8 WHAT IS A GRAPE?

No.-; ^obableCfe^^ource
1. Vitis Vinifera (European) Caspian Sea Area Food
Atlantic Slope, North
2. Labrusca American Food
America

Any member of grape genus, Vitis (family Vitaleae) with about 60

species native to the North Temperature Zone, including varieties that may be

eaten as table fruit, dried to produce raisins or crushed to make grape juice or

wine. Vitis vinifera most commonly used in wine making and apparently

originating in Trancaucasia, was successfully cultivated in Europe for

thousands of years and was eventually brought to California.6

Grape is a fruit of vine, carrying its seeds (or pips) in the centre of a

pulpy envelope, surrounded by a thick skin. On the vine grapes hang in

bunches attached to their stalks. Their colour varies from white (which

includes any shade from light green to yellow) to red (any shade from purple to

black).7

Whatever the colour of the grape, the juice is usually colourless - the

colouring of red wine or grape juice comes from the skins. Grape skins and

pips contain tannin, which can give a bitter taste if eaten with the grape.

Grapes contain many ingredients, which are important for good health-

sugar, vitamins and minerals. The sugar, which is a form of glucose, gives us

energy and aids the digestion. The amounts of vitamins A and B, which are

contained in veiy small quantities help to guard against diseases - Vitamin A

46
against diseases of the eye and vitamin B against beri-beri and pellagra. There

is also a larger amount of vitamin C, which-prevents scurvy.

Among the important minerals in grapes are calcium, which builds up

teeth and bones, iron which keeps the blood healthy, sodium, for the nerves and

iodine, which helps our glands to work.

Wine is the main reason why grapes are grown in such large quantities

throughout the world. Wine made from grapes has several extra qualities. It

contains about 10 percent alcohol, which in small quantities gives us many of

our necessary calories (for energy) without the carbohydrates, which makes us

fat Wine is also, used as a tonic for the weak and ill. It encourages the appetite

and can even kill germs in the body.

World wine production exceeds 25.5 million tonnes. Europe alone

contributes about 70 percent of the World's total, mostly from Italy and France.

Spain, Germany and South Africa also produces substantial quantities of wine.

California alone accounts for over 80 percent of United States production of

18,50,000 tonnes. Other producers are Russian Federation, Portugal and

Australia. South European use wine as Americans use milk, as an essential

part of their diet The per capita consumption of wine in France is 150 liters

annually, but in the United States it is less than 5 liters.8

Wine is a product made by alcoholic fermentation of crushed grapes or

grape juice by yeast By far, wine making is the' most extensive form of grape

utilisation in the World. The main wine producing countries are Italy, France,

Spain, the then USSR, Argentina, Algeria, United States, Australia, and South
47
Africa. The science dealing with wines is knows as Tsnology' which by itself is

a vast subject.9

1.9 COMPOSITION AND USES OF GRAPES

The physical and chemical components of fruits depend upon the stage

of fruit development. The relative and absolute amounts of physical and

chemical components of ripe fruit vary much amongst different varieties.

1.9.1. PHYSICAL COMPOSITION

The berry consists of skin, pulp and seeds. The ranges of more

important physical components of the fruits are given in Table 1.12

Table 1.12
The Range of Percentage of the Physical Components in Ripe Fruit
(ByweiRht)

^--■iPer^entageVTi:;
Stem (rachis,
2-6
branches, pedicel)
0-4 seeds per berry, rich in tannins
Seeds 0-10
(5-8) and oils (10-20%)
*Cutin or bloom constitutes 1-2%
Skin 5- 12
of total berry weight
80 - 90 percent of Depends mainly on the pulpiness
Juice
crushed grapes of the variety
(* The skin is covered with a thin wax like layer known as cutin and is
sometimes referred to as the bloom)
Source: Quotated by Jindal P. C.10 (1999) in "Grape" in Tropical
Horticulture (Vol. 1) by T. K. Bose eL al. Pp. 259

48
1.9.2. CHEMICAL COMPOSITION

The important organic and inorganic components of fresh juice are

given in Table 1.13

Table 1.13
The Range in percentage of Important Organic and Inorganic
Components of Freshly Extracted Juice by Volume
Orgahife 7 vlhprganicj^ox^-
compounds:«fjf£§5- -:-^\fiPecOBjiii:rvv^ .^pinpnhiid| of'i: r'f?.if^erc*ntfiv-

Water 70 - 80 Residual 0.01 - 0.02

Mineral
Carbohydrates 15 - 25 0.03 - 0.6
Compounds
Dextrose (glucose) 8 - 13 Aluminium 0.003 (T)
Levulose(fructose) 7 - 12 Boron 0.007 (T)
Pentoses 0.01 - 0.10 Calcium 0.004 - 0.025
Pectin 0.01 - 0.10 Chloride 0.001 - 0.010
Inositol 0.02 - 0.08 Copper 0.0003 (T)
Organic Acids 0.3 - 1.5 Iron 0.003 (T)
Tartaric 0.2 - 1.0 Magnesium 0.01 - 0.025
Malic 0.1 - 0.8 Manganese 0.0051 (T)
Citric 0.01 - 0.05 Potassium 0.15 - 0.25
Nitrogeneous
0.03 - 0.17 Phospate 0.02 - 0.05
Compounds
Protein 0.001 - 0.01 Rubidium 0.001 (T)
Amino • 0.017 - 0.11 Silicic Acid 0.0002 - 0.005
Humin ' 0.001 - 0.002 Sodium 0.020 (T)
Amide 0.001 - 0.004’ Sulphate 0.003 - 0.035
Ammonia 0.001 - 0.012 Tannins 0.01 - 0.10
T indicates Traces
Source: Quotated by Jindal P.C.10 (1999) p. 260 in “Grape” in Tropical
Horticulture (Vol. 1 by T. K. Bose et.al. PP 259-261

49
1.9.3. SUGARS AND ACIDS

The sugars of the verifera grape are primarily glucose and fructose,

generally accounting for 99 percent. The mature berry contains 12-17 percent

or more of its weight. The main sugar translocated from the leaves to fruit is

sucrose, which is hydrolyzed by enzymes. However, a very small quantity of

sugar in grape berries is also from translocation of organic acids.

Tartaric and malic acids constitute 90 percent of total acidity, citric acid

being the third most abundant acid in grapes (0.02 - 0.03 percent)

1.9.4. MINERALS AND VITAMINS

The minerals taken from the soil constitute 0.2 to 0.6 percent of fresh

fruit weight. Fresh grapes contain a number of vitamins. Fairly good amount

of vitamin 'A' is present which is retained in dehydrated grapes. The ascorbic

acid (vitamin C) is present in minute amount.

1.9.5. COLOUR FLAVOUR AND TANNINS

Generally the pigments of grapes are found only in the skin, where it is

confined to the outer 3-4 layers of cells. Some varieties retain the green colour

at maturity while others become yellow or orange owing to the presence of

carotene and xanthophyll in the outer layers. This yellow pigment is in both

white and red grapes.

i
50
 Flavour is the complex reaction of taste and olfactory receptors. Many

substances contribute to the flavour of which sugar, acids and tannins are

dominant. The tannins occur primarily in skin, stem and seeds. Its content

influences the palatability of grapes and their products. The tannins give an

astringent taste. How ever, tannins in wine stabilize the colour and aid in

filtering.

1.9.6. USES

There are three main strains of the grape the vinifera, labruscan and

muscadine. However, these strains have interbreeds over the centuries and

now there are hundreds of different varieties of grape. On die basis/of use,

grapes can be grouped as wine grapes, table grapes, raisin grapes, juice grapes,

and canning grape. In India majority of grapes is used for table grapes.

I. Table granes:-

The grapes, which are utilized either as a fresh fruit or for decorative

purpose are designated as table grapes. The table grape should have attractive

appearance, good eating and shipping quality and should be sold at reasonable

price. The berries should be large, uniform in size, shape and colour well filled

clusters free of injuries. Such grapes have great demand. The eating quality

includes the aroma, taste, texture of skin, pulp and seedlessness. In India, most

of the people prefer sweet seedless grapes. The principal table varieties grown

51
in India are Perlette, Thompson seedless, Pusa seedless, Anab-e-shahi, Delight

Beauty seedless, Bangalore Blue, Chima Sahebi, Tas-A-Ganesh and Sonaka.

Hi Wine Grapes:-

The most widely grown grapes are the wine bearing variety, of the

venifera family. This species originally came to Europe from the East, and is

grown all over the world. To make dry or table wines, grapes of high acidity

and moderate sugar content are needed but for sweet wines the grapes must be

high in sugar with fairly low acidity. The grape colour and flavour should be

retained in the wines. The commercially grown grape varieties in India have

been assessed for enological properties. Early Muscat, Perlette, Thompson

seedless and Bian Shirai were found to produce good white table wines.

Beauty seedless and Rubired gave good quality of red wines.

HI. Raisin Grape: -

The grapes that produce an acceptable dried product are included in this

category. In India, both seedless and seeded raisins are being used. The

seeded raisins are called 'Mannuka' while the seedless 'Kishmish'. Depending

upon the uses, the market demands large as well as very small raisins, but these

must possess soft texture and pleasing flavour. Generally the varieties with

TSS of about 22% are suitable for raisin production. Three important varieties

Thompson seedless, Black Corinth and Muscat of Alexandria produce nearly

all the raisins for international trade. Thompson seedless, being one of the
52
varieties extensively grown in India, gives excellent raisins, which indicates

more scope for developing raisin industry in our country.

IV. Juice Granes:-

The juice of some varieties of grapes produces an acceptable

unfermented beverage when it is preserved by pasteurization. Enzyme

Pectinase treatment facilitate sedimentation in cold. Grape juice concentrate

can be prepared with the help of conventional evaporators and stored. The

juice varieties should have the desired attributes, such as attractive colour,

pleasing grape-aroma and nice taste. Bangalore Blue, Beauty seedless, Early

Muscat, Champion, Black Champa, Gulabi are suitable for juice making in

India.

V. Canning Grapes:-

A very small quantity of grapes is canned. Only seedless varieties are

canned alone or in combination with other fruits. Seedless white grapes with

large berries are suitable for canning or bottling. Grapes are usually canned in

combination with other fruits, as fruit salad and fruit cocktail. Only seedless

grapes are used. Grapes are also prepared as jams, jellies and conserves.

53
1.10 CLASSIFICATION OF GRAPE VARIETIES

1.10.1. INTRODUCTION

The description and classification of grape varieties have received

considerable attention in all grape-growing countries of the world since, time

immemorial. The subject has assumed such an importance that a separate

branch of horticulture called Ampelography has been established. As early as

1873, an International commission was appointed for promoting the study of

Ampelography. The Commission (1873-80) published 15 reports in the

Bolletino Ampelographic and also Rivista di viticoltura ed Enologia since then,

the pace of work on this aspect has been very fast till the early twentieth

century and quite satisfactory even thereafter. The progress of this aspect of

viticulture is now being looked after by a special sub committee on

Ampelography formed by the international office of Vines and Wines. This

committee has already recommended that each vine growing country should

publish an Ampelographic plan and should describe the local & exotic varieties

cultivated in each country.

1.10.2. WORKS DONE IN INDIA

Though, grape variety introductions started in our country as early as

1838 (watt 1893), Punjab was perhaps the first State to take up comprehension

introduction and trials for testing the adaptability of grape varieties. This work

was started at Lyallpur (now in West Pakistan) as early as 1928, when the fruit

54
section of the Department of Horticulture headed by Lai Singh made an effort

to introduce grape varieties of merit from' countries like the USA, Australia,

Afghanistan, Russia. And within a few years, a collection of 166 varieties was

made at Lyallpur. From these early collections, materials were sent to various

places in the cities like Aurangabad and Pune, and interest in grape

introductions began in various regions. Besides the pioneering work done at

Lyallpur, the work initiated by Randhawa and his co-workers during late

fifties, needs mention. As a result of these efforts, over 1000 varieties of grape

now exist in varietal collections at various experiment stations in the country.

1.10.3. ANAB-E-SHAHI

It was introduced in Hydrabad by Abdul Baquer Khan from the middle

east around 1890. The original name of this variety is not known. Its present

name ’Anab" meaning grape and 'Shahi' was conferred by the Nizam of

Hydrabad to whom die bunches were presented during 1943.

Ripening is uniform, mid season to late, i.e. last week of June to mid

July in North and March April in Maharashtra Deccan and South.

Quality is average in North and good in South and West India TSS

(Total Soluble Solids) 14-16%, acidity 0.5 to 0.6, juice 55-75%. Average yield

35000 kg/ha, yield up to 80000 kg/ha have been reported from Maharashtra

and Andrea Pradesh. It is cultivated intensively in Andhra Pradesh,

Maharashtra, Gujarat and Karnataka states. Its only defect is low sugar content.

55
1.10.4. angurkalAn

Introduced from USSR, Ripening uniform, mid season third week of

June in Delhi 4th week of March and 1st week of April at Hessaraghatta

(Karnataka State) quality is good T.S.S. 18-20% acidity 0.6-0.7% Juice 70-

80% . This variety is male sterile and could be useful parent in hybridization
t

programme.

1.10.5. BANGALORE BLUE

It is a verifera and Labrusca hybrid. It is chiefly grown in Karnataka

State. It is being extensively used for making juice and wine in Karnataka

State and the products command a good market value. Juice is thick and of

purple colour. Ripening is fairly uniform in south. Quality is poor in north

India and medium in south India. T.S.S. 16-18% acidity 0.8 tol.O when fully

ripe. In Karnataka State two commercial crops are being taken by the grape

growers each in February March and August-September.

1.10.6. BANGALORE PURPLE

This variety is considered to be synonymous with Banglore Blue by

Phadnis (1965) and Gandhi (1960) however, the vegetative and fruit

character of the two varieties are entirely different from one another. This

variety does not ripen uniformly in the north, ripening is late, 4th week of June

to 1st week of July. Bunches do not ripen fully. Susceptible to cracking and

rotting in the north because of onset of rains.

56

/
1.10.7. BEAUTY SEEDLESS

It is an introduction from California, the USA, ripening is fairly

uniform, very early, end of May to first week of June in North India quality is

good. T.S.S. 18-21% acidity 0.6 to 1% juice 70-75% keeping quality low.

Yields highest on overhead bower. Average yield is about 35000 kg/ha.

It is an early ripening coloured seedless, sweet and prolific bearing

grape. Its scope of cultivation is limited to only near big cities and towns,

where it may find quick disposal. It has done well in North in Punjab,

Haryana, Delhi and U.P. On account of its high juice percentage sweetness and

heavy yield potential, it is likely to prove useful in processing industry for juice

and raisin making.

1.10.8. BHOKRI

This is believed to be one of the oldest varieties under cultivation in

India. It was introduced in Deccan in 1838 under the name Bhokari. From

Deccan, it was introduced into neighbouring districts of Nasik and Pune, where

it came to be known as Bhokri (Pillay11 1968).

Prior to 1950 it occupied nearly 99 percent of the area under grape in

Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. In recent years', however, it has

been losing its importance as a commercial variety and is being replaced by

other varieties like Anab-e-shahi and Thompson Seedless.

Ripening is uniform, mid season, middle of June to end of June in North

India, last week of February to mid March at Hessaraghatta, quality is medium,

57
T.S.S. 16-18%, acidity 0.5-0.8%, juice 60-75%. Barries crack with rain

keeping quality not good; can be transported over long distance.

It is a very heavy yielder, annual yield go upto 60,000 kg/ha both in

Tamil Nadu and Baramati area of Maharashtra.

It is a prolific bearer even cm single stake system, yielding capacity

however, increases with trellis system and further with overhead bower.

1.10.9. BLACK MUSCAT

It is vinifera grape. It is considered to be synonymous to Moscatello.

It has been tried all over North India and has performed well in Delhi,

Punjab and U.P. at Lucknow and Bangalore. Ripening is mid season 3rd to 4th

week of June in Delhi and 1st to 4th week of June in Lucknow and middle of

March to end of March at Hessaraghatta. Ripening is fairly uniform, quality is

medium good, T.S.S. 16-18%, goes upto 20% at Hessaraghatta, acidity 0.6-0.7,

juice 50-60%, medium to heavy crop.

1.10.10. DELIGHT

This is sister seedling of Perlette evolved by Dr. H. P. Olmo at the

Division of Viticulture, University of California, Davis. It is hybrid between

varieties Scolokertek Hiralyneje 26 X Sultania Marble (Russian). The cross

was made in 1936 and the vine first fruited in 1940.

This is a recent introduction in India and the variety has performed well

in Punjab, Haryana and U.P.

58
 It is less vigorous than either Perlette or Thompson Seedless. Ripening

is uniform and early, last week of May to middle of June in North India, quality

is good, T.S.S. 18-21%, acidity 0.5-0.6, juice 70%. At prime maturity it is as

good as Thompson Seedless. It has good keeping quality and can ship well to

distant markets. It has good bearer, but yields are lower than Perlette.

1.10.11. FAKHRI

This variety is believed to have been introduced in Deccan in 1838

under the name of Fakhri.

Ripening is uniform, late, first fortnight to July in Delhi and first to third

week of March at Hessaraghatta, quality is poor due to onset of rains and T.S.S.

does not go beyond 14%, quality is good in South and Western India. T.S.S.

16-18%, acidity 0.5-0.6%, juice 45-50%, yield from 25000 to 30000 kg/ha,

keeping quality poor, hence not suitable for long distance transport. Not grown

commercially to any appreciable extent

1.10.12. KALI SAHEBI

This variety is reported to have been introduced sometimes in the 17th

century by Baba Shah Musafir from Persia under the name of Habshi. It came

to be known as Kali Sahebi in Pune and Nasik Areas. It is a black grape and

good table variety and is cultivated in Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh on a

commercial scale. It cannot be recommended for cultivation under North

Indian conditions.

59

l
 Ripening is not so uniform, late, quality very good in Maharashtra and

Andhra Pradesh, T.S.S. 20-22%, acidity 03-0.7%, juice 50-60%. On account

of its attractive bunches, thin skin and sweet pulp with high T.S.S. it is sold at a

premium over Anab-e-shahi.

Yield is moderate 12000 to 18000 kg/ha. It has shown good yield

potential when properly trained. It responds well to long pruning i.e. 8-10

buds. It is a good shipper and can be sent to distant markets.

1.10.13. KANDHAR1

This is coloured seeded grape of good quality and has done well in

North India at Delhi, Punjab, Lucknow and Kanpur. Ripening is uneven in the

North but uniform in Pune, mid season, middle of June to first week of July in

Delhi, last week of May in Kanpur.

Quality medium to good T.S.S. 18-20%, acidity 0.6-0.8%, juice 60-

65%, yields on average 15000-20000 kg/ha, keeping quality good and stands

transport well. Responds well to 6-8 buds pruning and bower system of

training.

1.10.14. KISHMISH CHARN1

It is an introduction from USSR, where it is a highly valued seedless

variety of Uzbekistan. It is next only to Kishmish Beli in area and is mainly

used for raisin making. It is also used for table consumption. In India, it has

been introduced at a number of places and has done well in arid irrigated tracts

60
of Punjab, Haryana, Delhi and Pune.

Ripening is uniform mid season, 3rd week of June in Hissar, middle of

March at Hissarghatta, quality good, T.S.S. 20-22% goes upto 24%, acidity

0.5-0.8, juice 70-75%, yields 20,000 to 22,000 kg/ha on bower system.

1.10.15. PANDHARISAHEBI

This variety was introduced in the Deccan in 1338 under the name

Sahebi. From the Deccan, it was introduced to Nasik and Pune where this

variety came to be known as Pandhari Sahebi12. It is one of the best table

varieties of grape under,cultivation in the Deccan. It could not gain popularity

as a commercial variety on account of its poor yield averaging from 7,500-

10,000 kg/ha.
j

Ripening is uniform, medium late 3 week of June in North. A very

high quality of grape known as Deccan's Superb, T.S.S. 18-20%, acidity 0.5-

0.7%, juice 60-65%, quality is medium in North India. It does better on

overhead bower.

1.10.16. PERLETTE

This variety is evolved at the University of California, Davis by Dr. H.P.

Olmo. It is a hybrid of Scolokertek Hiralynoje 26 X Sultanina Marble and

resulted from a cross made in 1936. The vine first fruited in 1940. This variety

has a definite place in grape variety situation because of its being earliest

maturing seedless variety in existence (Olmo - 1948 b)

61
 This variety has performed well in North India and is now an established

grape variety of Punjab, Haryana and Delhi areas of North. It is also being

considered as a promising variety for Uttar Pradesh.

Ripening is uniform, early 3rd week of May to 3rd week of June

depending upon the region of cultivation in the North, quality is medium,

T.S.S. 16-18%, acidity 0.5-1.0%, juice 60%. It is mature and palatable at a

very low sugar contents.

It is a very productive variety, yielding about twice as much as the

Thompson Seedless though it cannot compete Thompson Seedless in quality as

a table grape, yields upto 35,000 kg/ha, have been obtained in many

commercial vineyards in North. It gives highest yields on overhead bower and

telephone system though it has performed well even on head system.

1.10.17. PUSA SEEDLESS

A selection made at the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, from

material of unknown origin. It has performed very well under Delhi conditions

and in other Northern States and is now being cultivated on limited scale in

Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan and Utter Pradesh. Its vegetative and fruit

characters are very much identical to the well-known Thompson Seedless

variety and are differentiated only by the shape of the berry, which is slightly

more elongish in the latter case.

It ripens uniformly and at the same time as Thompson seedless, i.e. 2nd

and 3rd week of June at Delhi. At Kanpur, it has been reported to ripen by
62
middle of May. It is sweeter and comparatively high yielding than Thompson

Seedless. T.S.S. 20-22% at Delhi, Kanpur and goes upto 24% at Hissar, acidity

0.5, juice 60-65% keeping quality very good. It does well on Kniffen,

telephone or overhead bower, the yields being highest in the latter system.

1.10.18. SELECTION 7 (CHEEMA SAHEBD

This variety is a selection made by Dr. G. S. Cheema of Maharashtra

Department of Agriculture from an open pollinated progeny of Pandhari Sahebi

raised at Ganesh Khind Garden, Pune. Recently it has been renamed as

Cheema Sahebi. Though this seedling was selected during 1927, it remained in

the varietal collection unnoticed till it was tried by the late G.C. Shembekar in

his vineyard at Baramati (Maharashtra) where it gave a bumper crop. Then on

the reputation of this variety has spread to all the grape growing areas of

Maharashtra.

T.S.S. being 20-21%, acidity 0.5%, juice 75% prolific bearer, yields

better than Bhokri and produces upto 37,000 kg/ha.

1.10.19. SELECTION 94

It is a selection made from open pollinated progeny of Pandhari Sahebi

by Dr.' G.S. Cheema, Department of Agriculture, Maharashtra at Ganesh Khind

Garden, Pune.

. Ripening uniform, late 4th week of June to 1st week of July and quality

poor in Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. In Pune also late ripener,
63
but quality good. T.S.S. 16-19%, acidity 0.6-0.7, juice 50-60%. It is a very

high yielding variety with 30,000 to 37,000 kg/ha. Responds well to short

pruning. It does not ship well due to soft pulp.

1.10.20. THOMPSON SEEDLESS

It is vinifera grape, which originated in Asia Minor and was first grown

in California by William Thompson near Yuba City. It is also called Oval

Kishmish in the eastern Mediterranean regions and Sultana in Australia and

South Afnca13(Winkler, 1974). It is believed to be grown in every viticulture

country of the World.

It is multipurpose grape. More than half of the World's raisins and about

95% of Californian raisins are made from this variety. Besides being a major

raisin variety of the World, it is a leading table grape. Large quantities of white

dessert wines are also made from this variety. However, it cannot be used for

producing high quality table wine. It is much better when converted into

Sherry. Its neutral flavour also recommends this variety as a base for flavoured

wines.

In India also, it is one of the important grape varieties under cultivation.

It has a wide adaptability and has performed equally well in all the grape

growing regions of the country. It has not, however, attained as much

importance as some other grape varieties like Anab-E-Shahi, due to its

comparatively low yield. In recent years, the popularity of the variety has been

64
growing in all regions of the country on account of quality consciousness

among the consumers.

Ripening is uniform and midseason, middle June in North, February-

April in Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Quality very good, T.S.S. 20 to 22%, acidity 0.5-0.6%, juice 70-80%.

Its chief disadvantage is its neutral flavour. Treatment with growth regulators

increases berry and bunch size with good care. It gives from 20,000 to 25,000

kg/ha.

Certain bud-sporte from Thompson Seedless have been identified by

i,
'i

some grape growers of Maharashtra in their own vineyards, named multiplied

and are being cultivated on a commercial scale. These are given below14.

1.10.20.1. TAS-A-GANESH

Tas-A-Ganesh is similar to Thompson Seedless in all respect except the

size of the berries and' clusters, which are larger than those of Thompson

Seedless. This mutant responds more to G. A. application and girdling,

resulting into a better quality fruit than Thompson Seedless. This variety was

identified by late Vasantrao Arve in his vineyard at Borgaon in Sangli district

1.10.20.2. SONAKA

Sonakaiis also similar to Thompson Seedless in all respects except that it

i
» , :r i

responds to-G. A. application better than Tas-A-Ganeshir Thompson Seedless.

' ** l, j

As a result, the berry elongation is better, berry skin- jib;;; thin ;and it is more
i 65
susceptible to berry cracking and rotting if it rains at harvest. It was identified

by Shri Nanasaheb Kale in his vineyard at Nanaj in Solapur district

1.10.20.3. MANIKCHAMAN

Manik Chaman is also reported to respond better to G. A. application

than Thompson Seedless. It was identified by Shri T. R. Dabade in Solapur

district.

66
 REFERENCES

1. E. Hyams (1954), Vineyards in England, Feber and Feber Ltd., London.

2. A. De Candolle (1986) Origin of cultivated Plants. Trenchand Company

London

3. A.J. Winkler et. al. (1974) General Viticulture, University of California,

Press Berkeley.

4. G. Watts (1893) A Dictionary of the Economic Products of India, vol.6, part

4 W. H. Allen and Company London.

5. D. S. Triveda (1963) India Chronology, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bombay.

6. The New Encyclopedia Britannica (1975) vol. IV, Micropaedea, p 682,15th

edition, International Copyright Union, The University of Chicago.

7. Andrew Langley Wayland (1981), World Resource Series PPM,15,

Wayland Publisher Limited, England.

8. S. L. Kochhar (1998), Economic Botany in the Tropics, p. ,211, Macmillan

India Limited, Delhi.

9. K. L. Chadha and S. D. Shikhamany (1999), The Grape Improvement,

Production and Post-harvest Management p. 546, Malhptra Publishing

House New Delhi.

10. P.C. Jindal (19990 "Grape" in Tropical Horticulture (volume l)by, T. K.

Bose et. al. PP 259-261 NayaProkash, Calcutta.

11. R. S. Pillay (196.8), History of Grape Growing in Deccan and South India,

Grape Souvenir, A. P. Grape Grower Association, Hydrabadi 1-3.

67
12. K. L. Chadha and G.S. Randhawa (1974), Grape Varieties in India, p 143

ICAR. New Delhi.

13. A. J. Winkler et. al. (1974), General Viticulture p. 633, University of

California Press, Berkeley.

14. K. L. Chadha and S. D. Shikhamany (1999), The Grape Improvement,

Production and Post Harvest Management, p-74, Malhotra Publishing

House, New Delhi.

68
Plantation of Thompson Seedless Plantation of Dogridge Rootstock

Supporting of Bamboo to Vines Grafting of Thompson Seedless on

Dogridge Rootstock