Dessert Grapes-Selection of Varieties with Exceptional Quality (Part II)

Abstract

Vinifera Varieties 'Black Monukka' (parentage unknown; origin probably in Afghanistan or present day Pakistan): This is an authentic grape for the connoisseur. 'Monukka' has an ensemble of attributes that are difficult to excell in dessert grapes; and if the writer were restricted to a single choice this variety would probably be it. The flesh characters are nearly faultless with a tender but firm, meaty, crisp consistency, and a tender, tightly adherent skin free of astringency or other undesirable traits. The quality is exquisite with a luscious richness, an exotic fruity flavor and aroma and of course, seedless. The berries are reddishblack, cylindroidal, below medium in size and borne on magnificent, fairly loose, large, long tapering clusters.