fox grape

plant

Also known as: American wild bunch grape, Vitis labrusca

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Last updated

June 26, 2026

Quick Summary

The fox grape, scientifically known as Vitis labrusca, is a type of native grape found in eastern North America. These grapes are characterized by their sour or musky flavor. The term "fox grape" has been in use since at least 1657. A specific variety, the northern fox grape, is also recognized.12

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Vitaceae
vinifera) and the North American fox grape (V. labrusca), the parent species of most of the cultivated slipskin American grapes. The Boston ivy (q.v.; Parthenocissus tricuspidata) and the Virginia creeper (q.v.; P. quinquefolia) are well-known woody vines common in the eastern United States.
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vinifera) and the North American fox grape (V. labrusca), the parent species of most of the cultivated slipskin American grapes. The Boston ivy (q.v.; Parthenocissus tricuspidata) and the Virginia creeper (q.v.; P. quinquefolia) are well-known woody vines common in the eastern United States.
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grape
Major species
Varieties of fox grape (V. labrusca), from which Concord grapes and other “slipskin” grapes are derived, are grown as table grapes or are used for grape jelly, grape flavouring, grape juice, and kosher wines. Summer grape (V. aestivalis) is thought to be the oldest American grape cultivar. The fruit…
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Varieties of fox grape (V. labrusca), from which Concord grapes and other “slipskin” grapes are derived, are grown as table grapes or are used for grape jelly, grape flavouring, grape juice, and kosher wines. Summer grape (V. aestivalis) is thought to be the oldest American grape cultivar. The fruit…
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wine
Species and varieties
The species V. labrusca and V. rotundifolia seldom contain sufficient natural sugar to produce a wine with alcohol content of 10 percent or higher, and additional sugar is usually required. Their acidity at maturity is often excessive, with a low pH. Varieties of these species usually have…
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The species V. labrusca and V. rotundifolia seldom contain sufficient natural sugar to produce a wine with alcohol content of 10 percent or higher, and additional sugar is usually required. Their acidity at maturity is often excessive, with a low pH. Varieties of these species usually have…
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