2023 Big Cork Russian Kiss White, Frederick, Maryland

Most American wineries build their white blends from the familiar: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris. Big Cork Vineyards in Frederick, Maryland went somewhere else entirely. Russian Kiss is a blend of Muscat Blanc and rare Russian hybrid grape varieties — cold-hardy cultivars developed through Soviet-era viticulture programs and grown almost exclusively in Eastern Europe, where the growing seasons demand grapes with genuine resilience and the flavor profiles that resilience produces. These varieties are almost never seen in American wine. At Big Cork, winemakers Dave Collins and Jay Cline use them to create something genuinely singular: a white blend that is aromatic, refreshing, and deeply expressive in a way that no conventional varietal combination could quite replicate. It is, as the winery describes it, a wine for those seeking something extraordinary and truly off the beaten path.

The 2023 Russian Kiss opens with a vibrant bouquet of white flowers, citrus zest, and green apple with subtle undertones of tropical fruit and a hint of fresh herbs — the Muscat Blanc's aromatic richness amplified and given structure by the Russian hybrids' natural acidity and cold-climate character. Light-bodied and refreshing on the palate with flavors of sweet pear, honeydew melon, and a touch of ruby grapefruit. Bright acidity and a whisper of minerality add structure and finesse. The finish is clean, crisp, and invigorating, with lingering sweet citrus and subtle floral notes. Off-dry and effortlessly drinkable — a wine that rewards curiosity with every glass.

Wine Details & Tasting Notes

Tasting Notes: Vibrant bouquet of white flowers, citrus zest, and green apple with subtle tropical fruit and fresh herb undertones. Light-bodied and refreshing on the palate — sweet pear, honeydew melon, ruby grapefruit, bright acidity, and a whisper of minerality. Clean, crisp, invigorating finish with lingering sweet citrus and subtle florals.

• Origin – Frederick, Maryland, USA (Piedmont Plateau; Mid-Atlantic wine region)
• Producer – Big Cork Vineyards; winemakers Dave Collins and Jay Cline; signature wine known for innovative use of rare Russian hybrid varieties
• Blend – Muscat Blanc and rare Russian hybrid grape varieties (cold-hardy Eastern European cultivars)
• Style – Off-dry white wine (aromatic; light-bodied; refreshing; floral; fruit-forward)
• ABV – 13.1%

About Russian Hybrid Grapes & Big Cork Vineyards

Russian hybrid grape varieties are cold-hardy cultivars developed primarily through Soviet-era viticulture research programs, designed to thrive in climates where traditional vinifera grapes struggle to survive. These varieties — bred for resilience, disease resistance, and the ability to ripen in short, cool growing seasons — are grown extensively in Eastern Europe and Russia but are exceptionally rare in American winemaking. Big Cork Vineyards in Frederick, Maryland, situated on the Piedmont Plateau in the heart of Maryland’s wine country, has embraced these varieties as a distinctive part of their portfolio — a commitment to growing and making wines that reflect genuine innovation and a willingness to go where few American winemakers have gone. Russian Kiss is the fullest expression of that philosophy: Muscat Blanc’s aromatic generosity meeting the cold-climate precision and acidity of Eastern European hybrids, in a wine that could only exist at a winery with the curiosity and craft to make it happen.

Food Pairing

The white flowers, citrus zest, green apple, sweet pear, honeydew melon, ruby grapefruit, and bright refreshing acidity of this Frederick, Maryland white blend make it one of the most versatile and naturally food-friendly off-dry whites in the collection. Pairs beautifully with grilled shrimp, seared scallops, and light seafood preparations — the off-dry fruit and crisp acidity complement delicate proteins without overwhelming them. The aromatic floral and tropical notes make it a wonderful companion for Asian-inspired dishes, Thai green curry, Vietnamese spring rolls, and anything with a balance of sweet, sour, and aromatic flavors. Also excellent alongside soft cheeses, fresh fruit, and light salads, and a natural match for outdoor dining, picnics, and any adventure where you want a wine that travels well and pleases everyone. Serve well-chilled at 44–48°F.

Occasion

This is your go-to Maryland white for adventurous wine drinkers, outdoor entertaining, game day, and anyone ready to try something genuinely unexpected. Rare Russian hybrid grapes blended with Muscat Blanc by two dedicated winemakers at one of Maryland’s most innovative vineyards — at $27.99, one of the most distinctive and conversation-worthy off-dry whites in the collection. Pour it and watch the room get curious.

Shipping

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