South Carolina

• Muscadine (Vitis rotundifolia): Sweet, highly aromatic whites and reds; signature flavors include banana, honeysuckle, and grape jam; best enjoyed young and well-chilled.
• Scuppernong: Bronze-skinned muscadine producing crisp, sweet white wines with floral and fruity notes.
• Noble & Ison: Dark-skinned muscadines yielding intensely fruity, ruby-red wines; typically sweet with a distinctive "foxy" character.
• Blanc Du Bois: French-American hybrid white; spicy, fruit-forward, and aromatic with a bright, clean finish.
• Lenoir (Black Spanish): Deeply colored hybrid; full-bodied dry reds with dark berry and earthy undertones, well-suited to the Southern climate.
• Vidal Blanc: Crisp, aromatic hybrid white; offers citrus and floral notes, often crafted in a refreshing, dry style.
• Norton (Cynthiana): Robust native red; structured and bold, with similarities to Cabernet, and notes of black cherry and spice.
• Crimson Cabernet: Bold, hybrid red; combines the structure of Cabernet Sauvignon with the resilience of native grapes, yielding rich, fruit-driven wines.
• Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot: Classic vinifera reds grown in select Upstate vineyards; offer structure and complexity, often blended for Bordeaux-style wines.
• Chardonnay: Vinifera white with styles ranging from crisp and unoaked to barrel-aged and creamy, produced in cooler foothill sites.
• Petit Manseng, Sangiovese, Syrah: Limited plantings of European varieties; showcase vibrant acidity, spice, and nuanced fruit character in small-batch bottlings.
• Fruit Wines: Sweet, approachable wines crafted from peaches, blueberries, strawberries, and other local fruits; highlight South Carolina’s agricultural bounty.
• Mead & Muscat-based Dessert Wines: Experimental and dessert styles; offer lush, honeyed sweetness and floral aromatics.

Nestled among sandy soils and gentle hills, South Carolina's vineyards thrive in a subtropical climate. The warmth and humidity are tempered by coastal breezes and the cooler elevations of the Blue Ridge foothills, crafting an exceptional environment for viticulture. This distinct terroir is particularly suited for Muscadine grapes, which are known for their disease resistance, as well as hybrid varieties like Blanc Du Bois and Lenoir, which flourish in the Southern heat. The diverse microclimates across the region allow winemakers to experiment, producing wines that range from sweet and aromatic Muscadines to more structured reds akin to Bordeaux styles. The sandy, well-drained soils contribute to vibrant, fruit-forward wines, while the varied elevations support the cultivation of traditional European grape varieties.

South Carolina's wine industry is making strides in sustainability by embracing native grape species and hybrids suited to the region's warm, humid climate. Vintners are turning to muscadine and other resilient varieties like Blanc du Bois and Norton, which naturally resist local pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions. This shift not only promotes organic practices but also supports healthier soils and ecosystems. These efforts are crucial in a region where fungus and disease pressure is high, allowing vineyards to focus on eco-friendly farming techniques that align with the state's diverse microclimates. Beyond grape selection, South Carolina winemakers are innovating in vineyard management and energy use to address climate change. Many are exploring cover crops and soil management strategies to prevent erosion and improve soil health, particularly in hilly areas. Collaboration with universities is fostering research into climate-smart farming methods, while adjustments in canopy management and drip irrigation help conserve water during droughts. Some wineries are also adopting renewable energy sources like solar panels and prioritizing recyclable packaging to reduce their carbon footprint. These practices show a commitment to stewardship that resonates with consumers and ensures the sustainability of winemaking in the Southeast for future generations.

South Carolina is emerging as a compelling destination for wine tourism, offering a blend of Southern charm and diverse wine experiences. The state's wine trails, spanning the Upstate, Midlands, and Lowcountry, each provide unique backdrops—from the Blue Ridge Mountains to coastal beaches—enhancing visitors' experiences with sweeping landscapes and a variety of activities. These regions are known for their warm, inviting atmospheres, where family-run wineries often feature owners mingling with guests, creating a personal and engaging tasting environment. The state's viticultural offerings include everything from sweet, aromatic Muscadines to resilient hybrids like Blanc Du Bois and Lenoir, reflecting the adaptability and innovation of local winemakers. Beyond the wines themselves, South Carolina's wine tourism scene is enriched by a wide array of events and culinary experiences. Wineries frequently host festivals celebrating local culture and cuisine, such as grape stomps and harvest celebrations, where visitors can enjoy live music and regional dishes like shrimp and grits. The integration of local food, art, and activities like vineyard hikes or biking tours further immerses visitors in the essence of the region. These offerings highlight the state's dedication to creating an enriching wine tourism experience that blends natural beauty with the warmth of Southern hospitality, making it an appealing choice for wine enthusiasts seeking both quality wines and memorable experiences.

South Carolina's burgeoning wine landscape is characterized by its adaptability and Southern charm, with a focus on Muscadine and innovative hybrids that thrive in its unique climate. Here are some of the state's notable wineries:

• Deep Water Vineyard: Located on Wadmalaw Island, this picturesque estate is the only winery near Charleston, specializing in muscadine wines like Magnolia and Lowcountry Red, with events like the Grape Stomp festival adding to its vibrant appeal.
• La Belle Amie Vineyard: A historic family-run vineyard in Little River known for its Twisted Sisters wines, this venue offers a blend of sweet muscadine and fruit wines, enhanced by live music and a laid-back atmosphere.
• Enoree River Vineyards & Winery: Situated in Newberry, this winery combines local muscadine and hybrid wines with international varietals, featuring a rustic tasting area and the annual Newberry Harvest Festival.
• Mercer House Estate Winery: An eco-friendly winery in Lexington, Mercer House grows over 50 grape varieties organically, providing a diverse range of wines in a sustainable setting.
• Victoria Valley Vineyards: Nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills, this estate offers a taste of France in South Carolina, with vinifera varietals and breathtaking views of Table Rock Mountain.
• Eagle Mountain Winery: A newcomer to the Upstate wine scene in Travelers Rest, this winery is known for its modern facilities and quality estate-grown Cabernet Sauvignon.