Grapes, White 'Brianna' (Live Plant)

These plants ship November through May from Pense Berry Farms in Mountainburg, Arkansas. Orders placed between May 21 and October 31 ship in November and December. Online orders of products from Pense Berry Farms require a $150.00 minimum. For smaller orders, please contact us.

Key Characteristics of Brianna Hardy White Grape:

• Origin: 'Brianna' is a hardy white grape cultivar developed by the renowned grape breeder Elmer Swenson in Wisconsin in 1983. It is a hybrid grape resulting from a cross between 'Kay Gray' and 'ES 2-12-13'. It was selected as a table grape in 1989 and later recognized for its potential in winemaking. The name 'Brianna' was given by Ed Swanson of Cuthills Vineyards in Nebraska in 2002.

• Patent Status: While developed by a private breeder, information readily available suggests that 'Brianna' is not currently under an active U.S. Plant Patent. It became available for propagation in 2001. It's possible any initial protection has expired, making it widely available.

Key Characteristics:

• Berry Production: Produces medium to large-sized, round, greenish-gold berries in medium to large clusters, often weighing up to half a pound or more. The berries are seeded and have a crisp, firm texture. 'Brianna' is known for its high yield potential, with possibilities of 4-8 tons per acre. It has a unique and delicious flavor often described as having hints of pineapple and other tropical fruit.
• Ripening Time: 'Brianna' is an early-ripening grape, often being one of the first to be harvested. Depending on the location, harvest can occur from early August through early September.
• Plant Size and Appearance: 'Brianna' is a very vigorous and healthy vine with a trailing growth habit. It adapts well to various soil types and climates. Late bud break and fruitful secondary buds provide good resilience against late frosts.
• Flowers: Grapevines produce small, greenish-white, fragrant flowers borne in clusters. 'Brianna' has good self-fertility but may benefit from cross-pollination with another variety.
• Hardiness: 'Brianna' is exceptionally cold hardy, tolerating temperatures down to around -30°F (-34°C) or even better, making it suitable for USDA Zone 4 and colder regions with snow cover.
• Pollination: 'Brianna' is considered to have good self-fertility but may produce a better fruit set with cross-pollination from another compatible variety.
• Growing Conditions:
  • Sunlight: Requires full sun to partial shade, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight recommended for optimal fruit production and flavor.
  • Soil: Adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil. Seems to perform well in drier soils.
  • Watering: Requires adequate and consistent moisture, especially during fruit development.
  • Pruning: Benefits from annual pruning during the dormant season to manage its vigorous growth and maximize fruit yield. Training to a high wire cordon may help manage vigor.
• Uses: 'Brianna' is a versatile grape suitable for:
  • Fresh eating as a table grape due to its appealing flavor.
  • Making high-quality white wines, often exhibiting tropical aromas like pineapple, grapefruit, and floral notes. It can be used to produce various wine styles, from dry to sweet and even sparkling wines.
  • Producing flavorful white grape juice.
  • Making pies, jams, and jellies.
• Wildlife Value: Grapevines provide cover, and the fruit is a food source for birds and other wildlife. The flowers attract pollinators.
• Ornamental Value: The vigorous vine can be trained on structures, providing attractive foliage.
• Disease and Pest Resistance: 'Brianna' is reported to have fair to good disease resistance. However, early defoliation due to downy or powdery mildew should be controlled to ensure the vine hardens off properly for winter. It shows good vigor and resilience.