Grapes were first cultivated 8,000 years ago in what is now known as the Near East. Chile is the leading grape producer in the southern hemisphere and the world, with nearly 30% of Chile's fruit growing area devoted to grapes. Chile's arid summer climate provides ideal conditions for producing quality fruit. Although known for such popular grape varieties as Red Globe, Crimson and Thompson Seedless, Chile has been introducing numerous new varieties to the world market, focusing on superior size, condition and flavor. This includes varieties such as: Sweet Celebration, Midnight Beauty, Timco, Scarlota Seedless, Magenta, Sweet Jubilee and Timpson. Chilean grapes are available from mid-November through August.