Homemade Concord Grape Juice Recipe

Homemade Concord grape juice is a refreshing drink made by cooking and straining fresh Concord grapes, then preserving the juice through traditional water bath canning. This recipe is one of the oldest and most trusted ways to enjoy grapes all year long.

The Concord grape itself has an interesting history it was first cultivated in the mid-1800s in Concord, Massachusetts, and quickly became popular in American kitchens for making juice, jelly, and even wine.

In this article, you will learn step by step how to make Concord grape juice the old-fashioned way, using simple kitchen tools and the safe canning method. You will find a full recipe overview, ingredients list, and detailed instructions from preparation to storage.

By the end, you’ll have everything you need to create a delicious, homemade juice that tastes far better than store-bought and can be enjoyed for months straight from your pantry.

Step-by-Step Instructions: Homemade Concord Grape Juice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Grapes

• Wash Concord grapes thoroughly.
• Remove all stems and place grapes in a large stockpot.

Step 2: Cook the Grapes

• Add enough water to cover grapes.
• Simmer on medium heat until grapes soften (about 20 minutes).
• Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Extract the Juice

• Place a strainer over another pot.
• Ladle cooked grapes into the strainer and press with a spoon to release juice.
• For clearer juice, strain again through cheesecloth (optional).

Step 4: Sweeten the Juice (Optional)

• Stir in sugar: ¼–½ cup per quart of juice.
• Mix until fully dissolved. Do not boil after adding sugar.

Step 5: Fill the Jars

• Pour hot grape juice into sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch headspace.
• Wipe rims clean.
• Place lids and bands, tightening until fingertip-tight.

Step 6: Water Bath Canning

• Place jars into a water bath canner with 1–2 inches of water covering the tops.
• Bring water to a rolling boil and process for 15 minutes (both pint and quart jars).

Step 7: Rest and Cool

• Turn off heat, let jars rest in hot water for 10 minutes.
• Remove jars carefully and place on towels to cool for 12–24 hours.

Step 8: Store the Juice

• Remove bands, clean jars, and label them.
• Store in a cool, dark pantry. Sealed jars last up to 1 year.

Tools Needed: Grape Juice Recipe

• Large stockpot
• Wire mesh strainer or cheesecloth
• Wooden spoon or stainless steel spoon
• Sterilized quart or pint jars with lids and bands
• Water bath canner
• Clean towels and labels

How to Store Grape Juice Recipe

1. After Canning
   • Let jars cool completely for 12–24 hours.
   • Check lids to make sure they are sealed properly (the lid should not flex when pressed).
   • Remove the screw bands to prevent rust and wipe jars clean.
2. Pantry Storage
   • Store sealed jars in a cool, dark, and dry place such as a pantry or cellar.
   • Properly canned grape juice can last up to 12–18 months without losing quality.
3. Refrigeration (After Opening)
   • Once a jar is opened, keep it in the refrigerator.
   • Consume within 7–10 days for best flavor and freshness.
4. Extra Tips
   • Avoid storing jars in direct sunlight or near heat sources.
   • Always label jars with the date of canning for easy tracking.
   • If you notice broken seals, leaks, or off smells, do not consume the juice.

Conclusion

Making homemade Concord grape juice with the traditional water bath canning method is a rewarding process that gives you fresh, flavorful juice you can enjoy year-round.

With just a few simple ingredients grapes, water, and optional sugar you can create a drink that’s healthier and tastier than store-bought. The old-fashioned method may take some time, but the results are worth it: natural sweetness, rich flavor, and the satisfaction of preserving your own harvest.

Whether you enjoy it chilled on a hot day, mixed into recipes, or saved for the winter months, this recipe is a timeless way to enjoy Concord grapes at their best.