Background. The black currant (Ribes nigrum) is native to Europe, Asia Pacific, and North America, but some of the highest-quality black currants are cultivated in New Zealand becaue of the optimum growing conditions.nthocyanins, with their incredible antioxidant and health-promoting potential, are one of the most heavily studied flavonoid categories. Anthocyanins are the water-soluble pigments that are responsible for the dark red-purple color found in fruits, vegetables, and flowers.