Making Muscadines a Must-have: Meet Muscadine Products Corporation
For over six generations, the Paulk family has cultivated muscadine grapes in Irwin County, Georgia. That type of long-held bond grows a knowledge that can’t be replicated overnight. Today, they lead the world’s largest muscadine vineyard and operate the Muscadine Products Corporation (MPC), blending tradition with innovation.
Innovative growth
MPC not only produces fresh grapes but has diversified into wines and health products. Muscadines’ antioxidant properties are useful in extracts, powders, and oils for various industries.
MPC collaborated with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD)’s Center of Innovation and the University of Georgia (UGA) to explore muscadines’ health benefits and enhance muscadine extraction processes.
“Through the UGA grant research, we learned that muscadines support healthy aging, cardiovascular health, the immune system, and digestive system,” said CEO Chris Paulk. These learnings laid the groundwork for new business avenues.
Watch From Juices to Supplements: Muscadine Products Corporation to learn about the research partnership.
Exploring new markets
A pivotal player in MPC’s global reach, GDEcD’s Trade team has helped MPC extend their goals by connecting the company with international buyers in Canada, Southeast Asia, and Korea.
“The knowledge and expertise they offer is huge,” Chris shared. He expands that the Trade team has assisted with the business registration process, developing leads for new customers through trade shows, and finding translators in international markets.
Supporting its roots
MPC started events like the South Georgia Wine Festival and the Georgia Muscadine Festival to foster local engagement.
“We wanted a way to create community, and celebrate the wine, food, crafts, and other products made down this way,” Chris said.
“We’ve gone from farming to manufacturing to hospitality,” Chris notes about the company, which was named the “Winery of Distinction” at the 2023 Georgia Trustees Wine & Spirits Competition. America’s largest muscadine vineyard was also featured on Explore Georgia as one of the best things to do in South Georgia for its picturesque scenery and family-fun activities.
The Paulk family’s commitment to innovation and community ensures MPC’s prominence in both local and international markets. Find out more about this 2024 Small Business ROCK STAR.
Learn more
Connect with Georgia’s Trade team to learn more about how companies can grow their international sales.