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glass of dark purple grape juice on a wooden surface.

Grape Juice: The Sweet Sip of Health, Culture, and Childhood Memories


  • Author: Adalynn
  • Total Time: 2 hrs 35 mins
  • Yield: 1 to 2 quarts 1x

Description

Grape juice is rich in antioxidants and heart-healthy nutrients. Learn how to choose, enjoy, and make it at home in this full 2024 guide.


Ingredients

Scale
    • 4 to 8 pounds fresh Concord grapes (or any naturally sweet variety)

    • Water (as needed)

    • Optional: sugar or honey (only if your grapes are especially tart)

Instructions

    1. Pick & Rinse
      Remove the grapes from their stems and give them a good rinse under cool water. Discard any soft, unripe, or damaged fruit.

    1. Mash the Grapes
      Place the rinsed grapes into a large cooking pot and gently press them with a potato masher to release their juices. This releases the juice and starts to break down the skins.

    1. Simmer the Mixture
      Set the heat to medium and let the crushed grapes gently simmer. Let them cook for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This softens the fruit and intensifies the flavor.

    1. Strain the Juice
      Position a fine mesh strainer or layer of cheesecloth over a separate large bowl or pot to prepare for straining. Carefully pour the hot mixture through to separate the juice from the pulp and skins. Let it drain for at least 2 hours — or overnight in the fridge for best results.

    1. Cool and Bottle
      Once fully strained and cooled, pour the juice into clean glass jars or bottles. Seal tightly and refrigerate.

    1. Taste and Adjust (Optional)
      If the juice is too tart, you can add a small amount of sugar or honey while it’s still warm. Stir until dissolved, but don’t over-sweeten — you want to preserve that natural grape flavor.

Notes

You can use this recipe for any amount of grapes. One pound of grapes will yield about a cup of juice.

If you are using ripe concord grapes, no added sugar is necessary, the juice is more than sweet enough. But if you are using a more tart grape, you may want to add sugar. I would just taste the juice and add more sugar to taste if needed.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 20 mins