Crystal is a high-yielding technical grape variety with a very early ripening period, ranging from 100 to 115 days depending on growing conditions. Bushes are medium-sized with dark green, large lobed leaves. Bunches are of medium size, cylindrical-conical or conical shape, medium density, and weigh approximately 170-200 grams. Berries are oval or round, yellow-green or white in color with a characteristic pruina coating, weighing from 1.5 to 2.5 grams, and contain 2-3 seeds. The pulp is juicy, and the skin is firm, which contributes to the good preservation of the fruit.
The variety is characterized by a high sugar content — up to 22-23% (17-18% according to other data), while acidity varies within the range of 6-7 g/l, ensuring a harmonious berry taste and making the grapes ideal for producing dry table wines, including amber-colored ones with a rich bouquet, as well as for making juices. Shoot maturation reaches 90-100%, and fruiting shoots reach 85-90%, ensuring a stable yield. The load per bush is about 60 buds with a fruiting cane pruning length of 3-4 buds.
Crystal differs in increased winter hardiness, withstanding temperatures up to -29°C, which makes it suitable for cultivation in regions with harsh winters. The variety is resistant to fungal diseases such as downy mildew and powdery mildew, with resistance ratings of 2-2.5 points, and is not susceptible to grey rot. Thanks to its characteristics and origin as a complex interspecific hybrid (parent pair Alfoeld 100 x Villard blanc), Crystal is popular among both novices and professionals in winemaking.
