The Concord grape varietal is a cultivar derived from the grape species Vitis labrusca that are used as table grapes, wine grapes and juice grapes. The Concord grape is a dark, bluish-black variety of grape, native to North America. Named after Concord, Massachusetts, where it was first cultivated, it was introduced by Ephraim Wales Bull in 1849.
This varietal tends to ripen in late September, and thrives in colder climates where other grape varieties cannot survive, including the northeastern United States, and parts of Canada. The grape is often used to produce grape jelly, grape juice, grape pies, grape-flavored soft drinks and candy. The skin of a Concord grape is usually dark blue or purple, and often is covered with a lighter-colored "bloom" which can be rubbed off.
One of the key characteristics of the Concord grape is its "foxy" flavor, an attribute of many Vitis labrusca grapes, which refers to the earthy, rich, and aromatic tastes and scents it possesses. In terms of nutrition, Concord grapes are a rich source of antioxidants, which can promote heart health and boost the immune system.