Vineland Station, ON; August 19, 2009 – Ontario’s tender fruit and grape region is well-known for its wines, peaches, pears, plums and cherries, but it also produces another gem worth discovering – Coronation table grapes. Available from August 31st to September 15th, they are the season’s must-have fruit. With their exceptional flavour and versatility, these limited edition treasures offer a whole new taste experience.

The Coronation table grape was conceived at the Summerland Research Station, in Summerland, British Columbia. Since its introduction to the Niagara region in the early 1990s, Coronation table grapes now represent about 90 per cent of the total table grape production in Ontario and experts predict it will become the exclusive variety sold. Their unique flavour and vibrant colour make them a perfect ingredient for desserts, sauces, jams, jellies and juice and are especially enjoyable when eaten fresh out-of-hand.

"This little grape is truly an undiscovered gem," says Adrian Huisman, general manager, Ontario Fresh Grape Growers' Marketing Board. "We encourage consumers to discover this grape’s sophisticated flavour and versatility for themselves. Whether in a jam or jelly or eaten fresh, this grape offers an eating experience unlike any other."

What is a Coronation table grape and how do you eat it?

• Coronation table grapes are virtually seedless and ideal for eating fresh out-of-hand.
• Coronation table grapes have a fresh taste profile – tart skin and juicy flesh offers the perfect flavour combination in every bite.
• Although some people remove the skin to eat the flesh, they can be eaten whole.
• With a sophisticated flavour and vibrant colour, Coronation table grapes are a perfect addition to cheese and fruit platters.

Sophisticated and versatile

"Versatility is not a word often associated with grapes,” says Sandra Saville, registered dietitian. “Coronation table grapes however, offer such a sophisticated flavour which makes them a nice addition to many dishes. I especially like using them in dishes prepared for younger audiences. They’re nutritious and hydrating, but most importantly they’re deliciously sweet which makes it easy to get them into a child’s diet."

Sweet and thirst-quenching, Coronation grape-sicles are sure to satisfy kids and adults alike on a hot summer’s day. Visit ontariotenderfruit.com for the full recipe.

How can I buy them?

Like a rare gem, Coronation table grapes will only be in stores from August 31st to September 15th. Look for a new clamshell packaging that will clearly and proudly state its origin and name.

"Consumers looking for these grapes in the traditional Ontario fruit basket this year will be surprised to see that they will now be packaged in a 2L clamshell,” says Huisman. “The clamshell allows consumers to be confident that they are selecting a quality product that has remained free from excess handling."

About the Ontario Fresh Grape Growers

The Ontario Fresh Grape Growers' Marketing Board operates under the Farm Products Marketing Act and represents all producers of fresh grapes. The Board has more than 150 grower-members. Ontario’s annual production of table grapes is approximately 2,500 tons with a sales value exceeding $4 million. Virtually all Ontario table grapes are produced in Niagara, with a small amount produced in southwestern Ontario. For Coronation table grape recipes visit www.ontariotenderfruit.com.

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For more information or for a grower interview, please contact:
Katarina Markovinovic or Sonya Franceschini
Faye Clack Communications Inc.
Tel: 905.206.0577 ext. 222 / ext. 249
Email: kmarkovinovic@fayeclack.com / sfranceschini@fayeclack.com
url: www.ontariotenderfruit.com