Grapes are as versatile as they are universal. Aside from Antarctica, they are grown in every continent worldwide and have been used in countless ways since the dawn of their cultivation 8000 years ago. Today, you can still find grapes in the finest wineries and in children’s lunch boxes. Their range of flavor, health benefits, and versatility make them a go-to regardless of industry.
Open your industry to an expanded range of products by utilizing the great grape and its unmatched adaptability. Learn more on how to best apply Northwest Natural’s grape juice to your product by reading more below.
Northwest Naturals Products Available:
There are thousands of grape varieties, but Northwest Naturals simplifies this assortment without compromising the versatility and potency of flavor. We focus on three main types: White, Red, and Concord. We also offer existing blends! Want a custom flavor? Contact us!
Our ready-to-order grape product list includes:
- White Grape JC
- Red Grape JC
- Concord Grape JC
- Concord Grape Essence
- White & Red Grape Concentrate Blends
- Grape Lemon Concentrate Blend – Ginger Type
- Grape Tangerine Concentrate Blend
- Red Grape JC WONF
- Grape JC WONF – Concord Type
- Organic Red Grape JC
- Organic White Grape JC
- Organic Concord Grape JC
Harvesting
Domestic grapes are available from May through October. Peak season is from August to early October, but since grapes are grown worldwide, they are usually available year-round.
Conventional red and white grape juice concentrate is typically readily available, though we have experienced supply challenges with conventional Concord grape juice in the last year. There are no current supply issues with organic JCs, but the organic market is typically more volatile. We always advise volume projections when using organic. If using organic grapes is necessary, we kindly ask for accurate volume usage projections and flexibility on order lead times so we can ensure you receive your desired product by your deadline.
Flavor Profile
There are thousands of varieties of grapes in the world. More than 80 types are grown commercially in California alone. NWN simplifies the varieties and focuses on three main types:
- White Grape
- Sweet and slightly tart with floral undertones. Bright and crisp flavor. Sour notes come mainly from tartaric acid, which builds slowly on the senses and lingers for a while (as opposed to citric acid, which is perceived very quickly and fades quickly too).
- Red Grape
- Shares similarities with white grape but includes a lot more tannins which give a puckery, drying sensation or astringency. Red grapes have some subtle berry notes as well.
- Concord Grape
- A dark purple grape (and juice) that is deeply sweet and jammy. A subtle tartness balances the sweetness nicely. Evokes feelings of childhood and elementary school juice boxes. The juice tastes delicious as the primary flavor but also in more sophisticated flavor combinations such as our Concord Lemon Ginger blend.
Pairing Suggestions
Grape JCs don’t have an overpowering, distinct flavor (except Concord grapes), so you can pair them with anything that can use sweetness and a touch of tartness. There are endless possibilities!
Fruits: apple, citrus, pear, cranberry, strawberry, raspberry, blueberry, elderberry
Vegetables: arugula, cucumber, carrots, parsnips, fennel, shallot/onion. Roast whole grapes with root vegetables like carrots and parsnips. Juice tastes delicious as a glaze.
Spices/herbs: ground chili pepper and paprika, cumin, ginger, mint, basil, cardamom, rosemary, thyme, marjoram, black pepper
Nuts/seeds: almond, walnut, pistachio, hazelnut, pecan, macadamia, cashew
Alcohol & Spirits: vodka, brandy, cognac, rum
Savory: cheese, pork, chicken, grains like rice, quinoa, bulgur
Other: honey, white chocolate, vanilla
Applications for Grapes
Grapes can be delicious juiced, baked, blended, blistered, broiled, dipped, frozen, grilled, and more! Whether your business specializes in cocktails or donuts, grapes are an effortless way to expand your products and elevate your existing flavors to your clientele.
For those specializing in alcohol and spirits, we highly recommend trying an elderflower and Concord grape cocktail! The sweet grape base with the elderflower’s floral notes creates an elegant libation. Or add a fun twist to a classic cocktail, and try a double-grape martini. The tart sweetness of the grapes will balance the intense wine-vodka mixture. Try sparkling grape ciders, sodas, sports drinks, seltzers, and more.
Pack them into sweet treats to create a delightful flavor that satisfies a sweet tooth without an overpowering decadence. Treats can include sour candies, gummy bears, jelly-filled donuts, galettes, popsicles, panna cottas, peanut butter and jelly thumbprint cookies, and more!
If you prefer savory applications, try a Concord grape-onion jam, grape-caper salsa, or honey grape meat glaze.
Find additional application ideas for grape applications and more on our website.
Request a Juice Sample Today!
Ready to craft your next bestseller? Request free juice samples and order products by creating a free Northwest Naturals account. It is a quick and easy way to gain a team of specialists ready to support all your flavor needs. Get started on your next crowd-pleaser, and request a free sample today!