Grapes
Washington wine industry launches sustainable certification program
The Washington wine industry launched the state’s first statewide certified sustainability program for wine grapes, signifying a commitment to quality fruit, environmental stewardship and healthy communities. Sustainable WA will begin certifying vineyards this summer. “From... more »
Washington Wine funds research projects tacking industry challenges
The Washington State Wine Commission (WSWC) awarded almost $1 million in research grants designed to improve wine quality by tackling high priority vineyard and winery issues. The organization’s board of directors approved 24 projects totaling... more »
Grapevine killer glassy-winged sharpshooter target of new technology
Scientists at UC Riverside have a shot at eradicating a deadly threat to vineyards posed by the glassy-winged sharpshooter, just as its resistance to insecticide has been growing. Withering grapes on a dying vine, which... more »
Deep freeze hammers California winegrape growers
The 2022 vintage in some of California's winegrape-growing regions took a massive hit from a mid-April frost that will leave some farmers with nothing to harvest. Bruce Fry, who grows winegrapes near Lodi, said some... more »
Missouri growers urged to watch for spotted lanternfly
While not yet detected in Missouri, spotted lanternfly remains a concern for vineyards, certain trees and specialty crops as it continues to spread west. If spotted lanternfly (SLF) reaches Missouri, early detection and insecticide control... more »
Michigan Statewide Grape Spring Kickoff hybrid meeting is April 29
Michigan State University Extension and Parallel 45 Vines & Wines (P45) are excited to welcome grape growers from all over Michigan and the Midwest to the 2022 Michigan Statewide Grape Kickoff Hybrid Meeting on April 29 from 9... more »
New findings show importance of microbial terroirs in winemaking
A team of researchers published new findings in “A global microbiome survey of vineyard soils highlights the microbial dimension of viticultural terroirs.” Authors include co-founder and CSO Alberto Acedo at Biome Makers Inc., Ignacio Belda... more »
Georgia apple assessment approved; wine/grape check-off fails
Georgia apple producers recently voted to continue the Georgia Apple Commission Marketing Order for an additional three years. The new marketing order will allow the assessment rate to be changed from the current two cents... more »