Uncorking Hidden Gems: Discovering the Japanese Wine Berry

It's been a spectacular year in the garden for fruit. Apples, pears, plums even figs have all carried huge crops, but our great success this season has been the Japanese wine berry. This berry is truly something, shiny and orange-red with a strong raspberry flavor that pops with a little sherbert. The Willamette Valley is perfect berry-growing country. Hungry Gardener Vern Nelson recommends Japanese wineberries, salmonberries, and huckleberries as the easiest berry crops to grow in the region.

The Japanese wine berry is a hidden gem in the world of berries, often overshadowed by more popular varieties like strawberries and blueberries. However, those who have had the pleasure of tasting these unique berries know that they are truly something special. The berries, which look like polished rubies and taste like raspberry wine, ripen during June and July, making them a delightful summer treat.

Everyone loves wineberries, right? Well, maybe not. Sure, the berries taste great and are free for the picking this time of year in so many places, but they are also considered by many to be noxious weeds. In fact, some gardeners go to great lengths to eradicate them from their property, viewing them as invasive and difficult to control. Noxious Weeds: 1; Me: 0.

The number of grapes needed to produce a bottle of still, dry wine differs from the number of grapes needed to produce dessert wine. This study investigated the effect of pairing of wine vinified from shade-grown grapes before onset of ripening on the palatability of the Japanese wine berry. The results were surprising, showing that the unique flavor profile of the wine berry actually enhanced the overall taste of the wine when consumed together.

If a tree falls in the forest does it make a sound? Perhaps, but what happens afterward is of growing concern to scientists studying the impact of invasive species like the Japanese wine berry on native ecosystems. While these berries may be delicious to humans, they can quickly take over an area, outcompeting native plants and disrupting the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

In conclusion, the Japanese wine berry is a truly unique and flavorful fruit that deserves more attention in the world of berries. While some may view it as a nuisance, others appreciate its delicious taste and vibrant color. Whether you enjoy them fresh off the vine or incorporate them into your favorite recipes, these berries are sure to add a special touch to your summer fruit collection.