As I live in NJ where it's illegal to ship wine from out of state. I've been trying to obtain an American Muscadine for several weeks even contacting several producers (Duplin, Childress, etc.) without success. Can you supply any retail locations in NJ where I can purchase? Many thanks.....Sam
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
Your inquiry brings up what is in fact a rather interesting but very technical discussion; namely, the precise genetic origin and profile of what we call Muscadine, or Vitis Muscadinia. Apparently, members of this family - or possibly a separate genus - are found only in parts of the U.S., Mexico and (curiously) Ukraine. Scuppernong is the variety many Americans might recognize, the representative with any meaningful commercial use. The Duplin Winery in North Carolina, one of those you mention, also sells wines made from Carlos grapes, another Muscadinia or V. Rotundifolia variety - just to make the subject that more complicated! Circling back to your question, the only listings I can find in New Jersey are from three Total Wine locations for Shenandoah Black Muscat from California. Apparently, this well-known retail chain has opted to categorize the wine under the heading "Muscat/Muscadine" on their website. This is misleading as the Muscat family is not V. Muscadinia. What about Amazon.com? They offer Duplin and Childress, and perhaps can fulfill orders shipped to NJ addresses. Failing that possibility, it seems your only option at this time, if you really want to purchase Muscadine wines, may be to make a trip to wineries who offer this type. Or, you can contact a few to see what they could suggest, such as retailers within a reasonable driving distance in a nearby state. I wish you success in finding these distinctive wines.
