Types of Texas Grapevines

Black Spanish

• The black Spanish grapevine is a hybrid of an unknown Vinifera vine and the V. bourguiniana vine, a native species. The vine is found mostly in southeast and central Texas, but can produce high yields of black-seeded, small grapes anywhere in the state. The compact clusters of fruit ripen from late July to early October. Its resistance to Pierce's disease and vigorous growth allow the grapevine to thrive wherever it's grown. The grapes make a high quality port wine, says horticulturists at Texas A&M Texas University, due to the high level of acid and tannins.

Champanel

• Champanel grapevines are native hybrids grown in Texas Hill Country. Being a native vine gives it an advantage over non-native types, because it has a natural resistance to diseases and insects that can attack other grapevines. It has a high resistance to Pierce's disease, heat, anthracnose, black rot, drought and downy and powdery mildew. This grapevine can even grow in heavy clay and soil with a high alkaline content. The large red to black grapes grow in small, loose clusters on the vine. Its ability to resist diseases and insects makes this the ideal grapevine for growing in the home garden.

Orange Muscat

• The grapes from this Texas grapevine are a classic Vinifera variety and are used to make white and red wines. It produces fruit with a citrus flavor that is turned into dessert wines. This grapevine can be grown in the Panhandle and South Plains areas of Texas. Orange muscat grapevines grow well in the rich soil of the Texas Panhandle. The quality of the grapes are improved by the dry air, cool temperatures at night and high altitude, which also reduces diseases that can affect grapevines.

Cynthiana

• Another native grapevine, cynthiana is grown for the sweetness of its fruit and pleasing aroma and is used to make red wine. Cynthiana grapevines, also known as Norton, are grown in north Texas. This is a grapevine that isn't bothered by the high humidity, heavy clay soil and hot summers found in this region of Texas. It's a cold-hardy vine with small clusters of dark purple grapes that are made into a dry red wine. Cynthiana is also resistant to Pierce's disease.