Muscadine grapes

Muscadine grapes are produced by Vitis rotundifolia, a grape species native to the southeastern United States. They have a characteristic musky flavour and are notably astringent and lacking in sweetness compared with European wine grapes, with thick skins and large seeds. Grown mainly as table grapes, some are used in winemaking, where their bold aroma and high acidity define regional wine styles of the American South. Their thick skins are rich in polyphenols, including ellagic acid and resveratrol, and they are also processed into juices, jams, and jellies. They are more disease-resistant than vinifera grapes, suiting humid climates.