A grape built for the South
Muscadine vines are native from Delaware to Florida and west into Texas. They tolerate heat, humidity and diseases that challenge European vinifera grapes. Scuppernong, a bronze-skinned muscadine, is named after a river in North Carolina and is one of the region’s oldest cultivated grapes.
What muscadine wine tastes like
Muscadine has a distinctive aroma, often described as musky, floral or like grape candy, with thick skins and bright acidity. Traditional versions are sweet, but many producers now make dry and off-dry styles, as well as rosé and sparkling. Taste a dry one alongside a sweet one to see the range.
Fruit wines and blends
Florida and other Southern states also produce wines from blueberries, strawberries, mango and other fruits, and blends of fruit with grapes. These are legitimate categories with their own standards. The Guide labels them clearly as fruit wines or fruit–grape blends so they are never confused with grape wines.
Reading the origin
As everywhere, a Southern winery may use local fruit, fruit from elsewhere in the state or grapes from other regions. Each Guide profile separates the winery location from the fruit connection.
Pairing ideas
Dry muscadine works with barbecue, fried chicken and shrimp. Sweeter muscadine pairs with pecan pie, peach cobbler and spicy dishes, where a touch of sweetness tames heat.
Questions people ask
Is muscadine wine always sweet?
No. Sweet styles are traditional, but dry and off-dry muscadine wines are increasingly common.
What is the difference between muscadine and scuppernong?
Scuppernong is a variety of muscadine with bronze or greenish skin. Many people use the names interchangeably.
Are fruit wines “real” wine?
Yes. They are fermented beverages with their own traditions and standards. They should simply be labeled as fruit wines.