In 1984, the Mississippi Delta AVA was created with the idea that this area, covering northwestern Mississippi and small portions of Tennessee and Louisiana, could become the great wine region of the south. Thus far, however, there has been no significant viticultural development in the region, despite the state's investment of millions of dollars for an enology laboratory at Mississippi State University. Enthusiasm quickly turned from grapes towards pre-existing small fruit farms. Reportedly, the state preferred to nurture this struggling agricultural industry, rather than adopt an enterprise unproven in the area. This leaf-shaped portion of land encompasses 6,000 square miles of fertile topsoil. The few wineries that operate in the area do have success with the native Muscadine varieties, commonly used for wine, juice and jellies.