Narrative
Type = American Hybrid. Per Hedrick (see citation): "In Berkmans, generally speaking, we have the fruit of Delaware on the vine of Clinton. The name commemorates the viticultural labors of P.J. Berkmans, a contemporary and friend of Dr. A.P. Wylie of Chester, South Carolina, who originated the variety and christened it Berkmans. Vine similiar to Clinton in growth and foliage, vigorous to very vigorous, hardy, produces average to good crops. Leaves medium to small, thin. Flowers open rather early, fertile; stamens upright. Fruit ripens with Delaware and keeps unusually well. Clusters attractive, much like Delaware in shape and size but slightly longer and more often shouldered, compact to medium, averaging slightly looser than either parent. Berries intermediate in size, slightly larger than Delaware, roundish to slightly oval, resemble Delaware in color but somewhat darker when well ripened, covered with lilac bloom, persistent, of average firmness. Skin thin, somewhat tough, slightly adhering to pulp, contains no pigment, nearly astringent. Flesh pale yellowish-green, translucent, fine-grained, tender, inclined to melting, vinous, sweet to agreeably tart, sprightly, very good in quality." Per Bushburg Catalogue (see citation): "Vine very vigorous and prolific; growth and foliage almost similar to Clinton. Bunches and berries larger than Delaware, of same color (pale red). Holds its foliage until frost, proving less inclined to mildew, but liable to be destroyed by thrips in some localities."