Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) VENUS

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera) 'Venus'

Early seedless American variety with high frost resistance and strawberry aroma.

'Venus' is a highly resistant American seedless grape variety, ideal for growers in colder regions. It can withstand frosts down to -26 °C without the need for winter covering. In addition to its resilience, it has gained popularity due to its specific and very pleasant strawberry-muscat aroma, for which consumers often prefer it over other varieties in tests.

Main advantages of the variety:

• High frost resistance (down to -26 °C).
• Seedless (Class I).
• Attractive strawberry-muscat aroma.
• High resistance to fungal diseases (downy and powdery mildew).
• Early ripening and high yield.

Origin and Registration

• Country of origin: USA (Arkansas)
• Parentage: 'Alden' × 'NY 46000'
• Registration: 1977

Variety Characteristics

Vine

• Vigor: Above average. The wood ripens very well (basis for frost resistance).
• Pruning: Medium pruning to 4 to 6 buds is recommended.

Fruit (Cluster and Berry)

• Clusters: Medium size (from 200 g), cylindrical-conical, medium density.
• Berries: Small to medium size (2 – 3 g), round. Seedless.
• Color: Blue.
• Skin: Not thick, but separates from the flesh as a whole when eaten (so-called "slip-skin", typical of some US varieties).
• Flesh and Taste: Meaty and juicy. The taste is harmonious, with a light strawberry-muscat aroma. Sugar content 18 – 20%.
• Usage: Universal – fresh consumption, drying (raisins), juice and wine production.

Resistance and Requirements

• Frost resistance: Excellent (down to -26 °C).
• Diseases: High resistance to downy and powdery mildew (reduces the need for spraying).
• Risks: Berries do not crack, but in wet weather during ripening, they are susceptible to grey rot (botrytis).

Harvest and Storage

• Ripening time: Early (approx. 120 days).
• Yield: Very high and stable (20 – 25 t/ha).