Fruit World kicks off organic grape program

Fruit World is starting its California grape season, with its grape program featuring new and heritage varieties and running from late July through October.

"We've increased production of our specialty grape varieties,” Fruit World co-founder and CEO Bianca Kaprielian said in a news release. “We aim to cultivate a small yet mighty — primarily specialty — grape program that will delight our customers with unique flavors."

The season starts with heritage green, black and red grapes grown from organic pioneer Pete Wolf, one of California's first organic grape farmers, the release said. The next grape varietal to ramp up is a nostalgic variety, organic Thomcord; a cross between the juicy concord grape and the tender-skinned thompson seedless grape results in a unique flavor.

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"The Thomcord grape's deliciously intense flavor has been a hit, and the strong sales prove its popularity,” Kaprielian said.

Rounding out the grape program is Kyoho, a Japanese gem that grows in round, uniform bunches. The Kyoho variety is popular in Asian markets but has also become mainstream due to its sweet and subtle tang, making it an ideal grape for desserts and cocktails, according to the release.

What’s more, Fruit World said it has recently transitioned its grape program from plastic pouch bags into more environmentally friendly paper tote bags.

“More than 60 percent of Thomcords moved into our recyclable and compostable paper totes, meeting our customers’ appetite to reduce plastic waste,” Kaprielian said.

Fruit World includes a comment card in each retail pack of its organic Thomcord seedless grapes. The card tells the story of co-founder CJ Buxman and why he grows the varietal. Each card also includes a phone number inviting customers to text their "Thomcord Tales" experience and to share their questions, feedback or comments, according to the release.

“We answer each text personally, engaging directly with the consumer and taking part in their Fruit World experience firsthand. Their stories are heartfelt, their feedback is genuine and the opportunity for live interaction with consumers is incomparable,” Kaprielian said.

Fruit World is a California-based citrus, grape and stone fruit grower.