Temperatures are rising, the sun is shining and summer has made its presence known in the Show-Me State. When you look for an award-winning wine to cool off with, why not pour a glass of satisfyingly sweet and refreshing Concord? July is Concord Month in Missouri wine country, where this mouthwatering varietal is a tried-and-true pick to satisfy on a hot day.

The Concord grape is an American varietal that was first discovered in Concord, Massachusetts, in the 1840s. Hearing this varietal’s name might evoke a sense of nostalgia and memories of younger years, as the Concord grape is commonly used in grape juice and grape jellies. Concord is a hardy and vigorous varietal that has found much success in the Show-Me State, and accounts for 6.6% of all grapes grown in Missouri. Learn more about Concord here.

Concord is a medium-bodied, sweet red wine with a vibrant plum hue. Be prepared to be swept away with this robust, yet satisfyingly sweet vino that brings forth classic grape-y aromas and flavors. Even fans of drier wines enjoy the refreshing sweetness of Concord on a sweltering day or at a summertime gathering.

Concord is an excellent pairing with warm-weather dishes like pork chops, barbecue and spicy seafood. This wine is also a mealtime match for orange chicken, figs, grape pie and chocolate. For the ultimate throwback pairing, try a glass of Concord with a peanut butter cookie! Cool treats like ice cream and popsicles are made even sweeter when Concord get added to the mix.

This summer, enjoy a glass of satisfyingly sweet Concord at a Missouri winery near you.