When Are Grapes In Season?

Grapes are available year-round in most grocery stores, but when are grapes in season in the US? Peak grape season generally runs from August through October, although the exact timing varies by grape variety and growing region. And while grapes are delicious straight off the stem, there are plenty of other ways to enjoy them, too. Here is your guide to grapes, including some delicious savory and sweet recipes for fresh grapes.

I googled “when are grapes in season” so many times in 2022 that it ended up being the impetus for writing my cookbooks. My toddler loved grapes and I was trying to eat seasonally and avoid food waste, so I was researching produce left and right. Grapes were always the one fruit I could never seem to remember.

Now I know they’re available late summer and into fall. And while I love just eating them off the stem, I’m slowly learning more ways to enjoy them. Roasting grapes is a delicious way to get a caramelized, sweet flavor from the fruit—delicious in both sweet and savory recipes. I’ve included some yummy recipes at the end of this post.

While grapes are available year-round, they’re fresher, sweeter, and often less expensive when they’re grown more locally. Next time you see grapes at the market, check the package to see where they’re grown (it’s printed on the packaging). In the U.S., out-of-season grapes are often imported from countries in the Southern Hemisphere, including Chile. Choosing locally grown grapes when they’re available is a simple way to enjoy seasonal produce and reduce the distance your food travels (and the emissions) to get to your grocery store.

When Are Grapes In Season?

Grapes are in peak season in the U.S. from August through October. You may find fresh grapes earlier or later than this window depending on the variety, growing region, and weather each year. Grape season can look a little different depending on where you live too. California has a particularly long growing season, while grapes grown in cooler regions tend to have a shorter harvest window.

I live in California, where a majority of the country’s grapes are grown, so I’m spoiled to have such easy access to fresh grapes. I usually see bunches of small grapes by August and then they get bigger and juicier for the next few months.

PRO TIP: Grapes are currently #4 on EWG’s Dirty Dozen list, which ranks produce based on pesticide residue data. If you want to reduce your exposure to pesticide residues, consider buying organic grapes when you’re able, and always wash grapes thoroughly before eating them.

Want to Eat More Seasonally?

Not sure what’s in season each month? My free Seasonal Produce Guide makes it easy to see which fruits and vegetables are at their best throughout the year, so you can plan your grocery trips with less guesswork.

Download my free Seasonal Produce Guide and keep it handy for your next grocery trip.

Grape Varieties and Their Seasons

Table Grapes

Red and green table grapes are some of the most widely available varieties and have a relatively long season. You may start seeing them in markets in mid-summer, with peak availability continuing into fall. Green table grapes tend to have a brighter, more tart flavor, while red grapes are often sweeter.

Cotton Candy Grapes

Cotton candy grapes are green and look like green table grapes, but they are so much sweeter—it’s an unexpected joy. I like the tartness of grapes, but if you don’t, then give these sweet globes a try! These sweet gems are typically available from U.S. farms in August and September.

Concord Grapes

Concord grapes are grown in northern states (e.g. Washington, Oregon, New York, Pennsylvania, and Michigan). They’re a dark purple and are very sweet—often used in grape juice. They’re typically available beginning in August and can continue into fall, depending on the growing region and weather.

Champagne Grapes

Champagne grapes are tiny little grapes. I’ve seen them at Trader Joe’s most consistently. They’re available August–October, but I’ve had the most luck finding them in September.

How to Pick and Store Grapes

When choosing grapes, look for plump fruit that is firmly attached to flexible, green stems. Avoid grapes that are wrinkled, sticky, or have brown or discolored spots. Grapes naturally have a “hazy” look to them, which actually helps them last longer.

Before storing your grapes, give them a look over to remove any wrinkled, burst, or spotted grapes. This can help prevent mold from spreading to the rest of the bunch.

Grapes should be stored in your refrigerator and can last about 1–2 weeks. Most sites recommend storing grapes unwashed and washing them just before eating. I usually wash my grapes as soon as we get home from the farmers market, then dry them thoroughly on a towel before refrigerating them. Either way, be sure to wash your grapes thoroughly before eating.

Whether you wash them before storing or just before eating, be sure to wash your grapes thoroughly before eating them.

What to Make With Fresh Grapes

Fresh grapes are delicious on their own, but they’re also surprisingly versatile in salads, appetizers, drinks, baked goods, and savory dinners. If you’re wondering what to do with fresh grapes, these recipes are a great place to start.

Grape Broccoli Salad

This broccoli grape salad recipe is a flavorful, hearty side dish that balances savory roasted broccoli with sweet, juicy grapes. It’s an easy way to add more vegetables and seasonal fruit to your table, with plenty of texture and flavor in every bite.

Fall Charcuterie Board

Grapes are a perfect addition to this fall charcuterie board. They’re in season in the fall and add a juicy, naturally sweet bite that pairs beautifully with cheese, cured meats, and other seasonal favorites.

Whipped Ricotta with Roasted Grapes

This whipped ricotta with roasted grapes is an easy appetizer that feels special without being complicated. Creamy ricotta pairs with sweet, caramelized grapes for a delicious combination of savory, sweet, and tangy flavors.

Sheet Pan Chicken with Grapes & Sage

This sheet pan chicken with grapes and sage is an easy, flavorful dinner that makes the most of seasonal red grapes. Sweet roasted grapes pair beautifully with savory chicken and fragrant sage for a simple meal with plenty of fall flavor.

Grape Rosemary & Ricotta Flatbread

This grape rosemary ricotta flatbread is a simple, flavorful appetizer or light meal that combines creamy ricotta with sweet roasted grapes and fresh rosemary. It’s an easy way to turn a few seasonal ingredients into something that feels a little elevated.

Champagne Grape Scones

These champagne grape scones are a delicious twist on a classic baked treat, combining sweet grapes with creamy Brie in a tender, savory-sweet scone. They’re perfect for brunch, entertaining, or a cozy afternoon snack.

Roasted Grape Crostata

For an easy dessert that feels a little unexpected, try this rustic roasted grape crostata. Juicy grapes burst as they bake into a simple, golden crust, making this a beautiful way to enjoy seasonal fruit.

Brunch Sangria

This brunch sangria is a refreshing, easy-to-make drink that’s perfect for entertaining, especially when grapes are in season. Fresh grapes add a juicy, naturally sweet bite to the mix of Chardonnay and fruit, making this a festive choice for brunch gatherings or fall celebrations.

Grape Spritzers

These refreshing grape rosemary spritzers are an easy, nonalcoholic drink for entertaining or sipping on a warm day. Fresh grapes, sparkling water, and rosemary come together for a simple seasonal drink that looks just as lovely as it tastes.

Grapes may be easy to find year-round, but late summer and fall are the perfect time to enjoy them at their seasonal best. Whether you eat them fresh, roast them for a savory dish, or turn them into a drink or dessert, there are plenty of delicious ways to make the most of grape season.