Perfectly-Formed Fruit can Fetch a Fortune in Japan

Japan is a country where perfectly-formed fruit can fetch a fortune, with melons that sell for the price of a new car and grapes that go for more than (Dollar) 100 a pop. An industry of fruit boutiques has defied Japan's sluggish economy to consistently offer luscious and lavishly tended produce for hefty prices -- and it is always in demand. In July, a single bunch of "Ruby Roman" grapes reportedly sold for 400,000 yen ( (Dollar) 4,000), making the plump, crimson berries ...