The Great Georgia Grape

There’s a little known secret that’s about to come out of the bottle. The Noble Muscadine grape, grown in South Georgia, has been found to contain anti-inflammatory properties and high levels of antioxidants. One of 12 major cultivars of Muscadine, the Noble grape has an extra chromosome that enables it to grow best in our hot climate, which causes it to grow thicker skin and seeds to protect it from the heat and thereby create richer nutrients.

Research done on grape phytochemicals has shown that they improve heart health, prevent inflammatory disease, and may benefit people who are concerned about health conditions such as asthma, arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and obesity. The health benefits of the Noble grape were first discovered by University of Georgia Professor Dr. Diane Hartle, co-author of Muscadine Medicine. Hartle is currently working with Chris Paulk of Muscadine Products Corporation to create the first highly concentrated Muscadine extract for nutraceutical use.

Donna Ruppert of Voila in Decatur offers diners Notchaway Red Wine from Still Pond Vineyard in Arlington, Georgia made from the Noble Muscadine. Donna, who researches grapes and their byproducts in her spare time, created the Voila Cocktail and “Muscadine Granita,” a frozen dessert made from Muscadine wine and grape juice that is a fat-free, nutrient-rich way to end an excellent dinner.

Either in a glass of wine, a frozen dessert or a small capsule, the Noble Muscadine grape should become a part of everyone’s diet. Locally grown and produced, it is a product that will go a long way in taste, personal health and supporting our natural food growers industry.