VARIETIES

The Australian dried grape industry strives for innovation, ensuring its processes are efficient, sustainable and fair.

There are four main dried grape varieties produced in Australia, some of which aren’t grown anywhere else in the world.

AUSTRALIAN DRIED GRAPES

SULTANAS

Sultanas are the main type of dried grapes grown in Australia and comprise several varieties, including the more traditional Thompson Seedless as well as Merbein Seedless, Selma Pete, and the newer Sunglo. 

Sweet and golden, sultanas are harvested early in the season, with the process starting mid-February.

Sultanas are known as raisins in the USA.

CURRANTS

Carina and Black Gem are the two main varieties of currants grown in Australia.

Sweet and tangy, the small, seedless black berries dry quickly in the sun and are often the first variety to be picked when harvest begins.

Unique to Australia, the Carina variety was developed to deliver consistently high yields. It is also plumper and juicier than traditional varieties.

SUNMUSCAT

Sunmuscat is one of the most popular newer sultana-type varieties.

First imported into Australia by the CSIRO in the 1970s, Sunmuscat is highly fruitful and matures in early March – later in the season than other varieties.

Sunmuscats aren’t grown in any other part of the world. The large, honey-coloured berries are enjoyed for their unique sweet and slight muscat flavour.

RAISINS

The main grape variety used in Australian raisin production is muscat gordo blanco. It is larger than other varieties grown for drying and has a muscat flavour.

Raisins are harvested towards the end of the season and have a seed that is removed during processing.