December is a black table grape variety of medium maturity period, distinguished by medium vine vigor and very good ripening. The vine forms an even, open arrangement of shoots in the canopy, ensuring good visibility and accessibility of all clusters. Leaves are medium-sized, slightly oval, three-lobed, with a smooth or slightly wrinkled surface and partial down on the underside. The flower is perfect, which promotes stable fruit set. The maturity period is about 165 days, and the yield reaches an average of 156 centners per hectare over three years of fruiting. December clusters have medium density and good structure, which increases their resistance to tortrix moths. The average cluster weight varies from 220 to 600 grams, and the size is about 14 by 8 centimeters. Berries are oval, dense but edible, with a bluish bloom, colored in deep black or blue-purple. Berry weight ranges from 3 to 4 grams, and the size is approximately 2.3 by 1.5 centimeters. Inside, there are 2-3 seeds. The pulp is juicy, with a simple but harmonious taste, with a tasting score of about 7.8-8 points. Sugar content reaches 14.8-18%, acidity is 8-9 g/L. The variety shows high resistance to downy mildew, gray rot, and spider mites, as well as enhanced winter hardiness — withstands frosts down to minus 25-27°C. It is not susceptible to attacks by insect pests and wasps, but is attractive to birds. The marketability of the grapes is high, but due to weak attachment of berries to the pedicel, transportation is difficult, especially during long or harsh shipments, which can lead to shedding. The grapes keep well in the refrigerator and can retain their qualities until New Year. December is suitable for fresh consumption, as well as for the production of juices, wine, and compotes, which makes it attractive for industrial viticulture.
