Israeli table-grape growers and exporters are widening the range of varieties they export to overseas markets.

The new varieties are mostly grown in the Lachish region in the Northern Negev in boutique vineyards. The yields of these varieties are expected to reach a total of 18,000 tonnes and nearly a quarter of this volume is slated for export.

Exporters have indicated the new varieties will be packed in innovative transparent packs bearing the name of the variety and other details. And when marketed to the major supermarket chains, the fruit will be packed in the multiples’ own shelf-ready packaging.

The new varieties are Flame Seedless, Crimson Seedless, seeded black Muscat, black seedless varieties Black Finger, Autumn Royal, and Black Diamond. The latter was bred by the Volcani Centre and is only being marketed in limited quantities.

All of the types grown in Lachish are grown by established producers, and their prime export focus is the UK.