Production of Full Ripe and Aromatic Muscat of Alexandria Grapes and the Preferences of Consumers

Full ripe Muscat clusters with high aroma, produced by root zone restriction and partial root drying method, were sold to consumers in the seasons of 2006 and 2007. Their preferences concerning the clusters were examined by obtaining their opinions through the questionnaire method. In the 2006 test, most consumers, mainly living in the Kanto district, preferred clusters with a natural cluster shape and strong taste and aroma, while in the 2007 test Kansai consumers commented that the berry size must be bigger and the seeds should be removed, although the taste was acceptable. Such different responses depending on the consumer district should be noted when discussing future strategies for Muscat of Alexandria grape growing in Okayama.