The American wine industry is undergoing a significant transformation, particularly on the East Coast. Driven by environmental challenges and a desire for authentic regional expression, winemakers are moving away from reliance on the traditional Vitis vinifera species. Instead, they are championing native and hybrid grape varieties, as well as local fruits, to produce wines that are not only resilient but also reflect the unique terroir of their regions. This innovative approach is fostering a vibrant and inclusive wine culture, attracting both new talent and seasoned professionals dedicated to crafting exceptional, diverse, and delicious wines.
Pioneering a New Era for American Viticulture
In a dynamic shift across the American wine landscape, particularly prominent along the East Coast, a new generation of winemakers is redefining viticultural practices. Confronted by the escalating challenges of climate change, including invasive pests, unpredictable weather patterns, and persistent plant diseases, many grape growers are re-evaluating their reliance on traditional European Vitis vinifera varieties. This introspection is leading to a renaissance in American winemaking, emphasizing adaptability and regional identity.
Key figures in this movement are actively shaping the future of wine. Jahdé Marley, a New York-based portfolio manager in wine and spirits sales, observed this burgeoning trend. Alongside a group of esteemed sommeliers, sales representatives, and producers, Marley embarked on a journey to explore innovative wineries on the East Coast. Their stops included NOK Vino in New Hampshire, Camuna Cellars in Pennsylvania, and R.A.S. Wines in Maine. These establishments are distinguished by their use of native grapes like Catawba and Concord, as well as local fruits such as black currant and apples, and hardy hybrid varieties like Chambourcin, Marquette, and Chardonel. Marley noted that these wines possess a \"lively, lighthearted with playfulness\" character, often featuring lower alcohol content, higher acidity, and visually striking hues ranging from bluish-reds to golden yellows.
Inspired by these discoveries and the growers' foundational farming practices, Marley launched Anything But Vinifera Ferments (ABV Ferments) in 2022. This traveling summit serves as both a tasting experience and an educational platform, bringing together producers, beverage directors, buyers, and enthusiasts. ABV Ferments has quickly evolved into a vital ecosystem, hosting events in diverse locations such as Miami, Asheville (North Carolina), Waynesboro (Virginia), Oakland, and Los Angeles. Its core mission revolves around a decolonized ethos, celebrating all cultures that engage in fruit fermentation and connecting industry newcomers with veterans.
A significant proponent of this movement is Ben Jordan, a renowned winemaker from Virginia. He has been instrumental in shaping the regional wine identity in the Shenandoah Valley through his ventures: Commonwealth Crush Co. (CWC), Midland, and Lightwell Survey wineries. Jordan views ABV Ferments as a source of renewed perspective and energy, fostering engagement with diverse expressions and flavors. His innovative spirit caught the attention of Lee Campbell, now the wine director at Borgo in New York City. Campbell, initially impressed by Jordan's distinctive Petit Manseng, a vinifera grape that thrives in Virginia's climate, became a partner in launching CWC alongside Jordan's brother Tim and former Early Mountain staffer Patt Eagan. Campbell highlights that American wine has historically mimicked European styles, often denying its unique potential. This new wave, however, is about embracing America's authentic winemaking narrative.
In Charlottesville, winemaker Reggie Leonard, cofounder of Oenoverse with Blenheim Vineyards, observed the synergy created by ABV Ferments. Oenoverse is dedicated to expanding opportunities for underrepresented individuals in the Virginia wine scene, collaborating with The Veraison Project to provide mentorship, scholarships, and apprenticeships. Leonard emphasizes that if wine is a cultural product, then access to its creation should be inclusive. CWC also supports this ethos through an incubator program, enabling aspiring winemakers like Leonard and his business partner Lance Lemon (with their Parallax Project) to develop distinctive wines using hybrid blends that tell a specific Virginia story.
Collaborations continue to flourish, with Marley partnering with CWC to produce the Love Echo series, including a pét-nat style wine infused with foraged pawpaws. Lightwell Survey has also teamed up with New York sommelier Oniyx Acosta, whose nonprofit Co-Fermented now manages ABV Ferments. Together, they have crafted unique wines, such as a white infused with local pine cones and a pét-nat featuring wine berries and Virginia wildflower honey. Leonard proudly states, \"In Virginia, we’re doing things with grapes that most others aren’t doing.\"
This innovative approach signals a broader shift in consumer preferences. Campbell notes that people are becoming less interested in conventionally highly-rated wines, instead prioritizing \"deliciousness, not elitism.\" This embrace of diverse fruits and fermentation techniques promises an endless array of flavors and ideas, truly representing the breadth of American wine. As Jordan optimistically concludes, \"We’re in a good place now, and it’s going to get better.\"
The ongoing evolution of American winemaking, particularly the East Coast's embrace of native and hybrid grapes, offers a profound lesson in resilience and authenticity. This movement, driven by visionaries like Jahdé Marley and Ben Jordan, demonstrates that innovation born from environmental necessity can lead to unexpected and delightful outcomes. It’s a testament to breaking free from traditional constraints and celebrating local identity. This shift not only ensures a more sustainable future for viticulture but also creates a more inclusive industry, proving that the most compelling stories, and the most delicious wines, often emerge when we dare to be different and truly reflect our unique origins.