There’s nothing worse than reaching for a juicy bunch of grapes only to find a soggy, shriveled mess. Luckily, keeping grapes crisp and delicious is easier than you think. With a few expert-approved tips, you can extend their shelf life and enjoy that perfect, refreshing crunch every time.
Start with the Freshest Bunch
At the store, look for vibrant color—yellow-green for green grapes, deep red for reds, and rich purple for blacks. Check the stems too: they should be green and flexible, not dry or brown. A natural waxy coating, called “bloom,” is also a good sign—it protects the grapes, but it’s not a freshness guarantee.
Choose the Right Varieties
Thicker-skinned grapes like Crimson Seedless and Moon Drops last longer than delicate varieties. AutumnCrisp grapes, for example, can stay fresh up to two weeks if stored correctly.
Store Smart
Resist the urge to wash grapes before storing. Extra moisture speeds up spoilage. Instead, keep them unwashed in their original ventilated packaging, tucked into your refrigerator’s crisper drawer. And leave them on the stem—loose grapes go mushy faster.
Ready to Serve?
When it’s time to snack, rinse grapes under cold water and remove any damaged ones. If you prefer room-temperature grapes, keep just a portion on the counter—leave the rest chilled for longevity.
Hosting tip: For parties, serve grapes in a bowl over ice. It keeps them crisp and feels a little fancy too.
With these simple steps, your grapes will stay fresher, longer—and every handful will be just as tasty as the first.
