by DOUG GRAVES Ohio Correspondent PIKETON, Ohio – As temperatures drop statewide, some of the best ways wine enthusiasts and vineyard operators can protect their corps from harsh winter weather is by using high tunnels, employing windbreaks or be selecting cord-hardy cultivars. “Understanding multiple techniques for protecting wine grapes from cold weather is key for successful vineyard operations, especially in Ohio where temperatures can drop below zero for days on end in winter months,” said Gary Gao, an Ohio State University specialist and associate professor of small fruit crops at OSU’s South Centers in Piketon. “Smart winter protection techniques will help grape growers produce a crop instead of losing fruit-producing canes in winter and possible losing vines for good.” New and existing grape growers and winemakers can learn more about these techniques and much more at the 2019 Grape and Wine Analysis Workshop, to be held Thursday, Dec. 5 at OSU’s South Centers from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Gao will spearhead the one-day event and will be joined by university horticulture and viticulture experts. Assisting Gao will be research assistant Ryan Slaughter. Presenters from OSU South Centers and Department of Horticulture Crop Science will offer presentations and answer any questions. “The commercial grape and wine workshop is designed to offer growers, winemakers and vineyard producers a practical approach to operating a successful vineyard and winery,” Gao said. “We’ve been running this very popular program for quite a few years now. Whether you are an established grower or wine maker, or are just interested in getting started in this important economical industry, this workshop will provide valuable information for you to take back to your operation.” According to a 2016 economic impact study by the Ohio Department of Agriculture, the impact that grape growing and wine making has on the economy of Ohio is roughly $1.3 billion annually. Ohio is the sixth largest wine and ninth largest grape-producing state with a retail value of $61 million in wine sold. Ohio has 265 wineries that employ 8,067 fulltime workers who produce nearly six million gallons of wine annually. Ohio vineyards range anywhere from one acre to 170 acres in size. “Our speakers all have extensive training and experience in either grape growing or wine making or both,” Gao said. “Attendees will also get to see our research and demonstration vineyards at OSU South Centers, and check out some of our analytical tools for fruit and wine analysis.” Topics covered will include a 2019 vintage overview, a focus on red and white grape and wine production, vine establishment and training, grape cultivars trialed at OSU South Centers, and vineyard maintenance. “Attendees will learn different ways to manage vineyards to reduce risk and to maximize profitability,” Gao said. “Winemakers will also learn practical techniques to make outstanding wine from new and existing grape cultivars.” Attendees over the age of 21 will have the chance to sample some of the wines made from OSU enology trials. The cost of the workshop is $25 per person and includes an Italian-themed pasta and salad lunch catered by Haute Stuff. To register contact Bradford Sherman at (740)289-2071, ext. 115 or email Sherman.1743@osu.edu. The deadline to register is Dec. 2. Captions Grape Workshop 1 -- Dr. Gary Gao will spearhead activities during the one-day gathering of the Grape and Wine Analysis Workshop to be held Dec. 5 at Ohio State University South Centers. In the photo, Dr. Gao demonstrates proper grape vine pruning techniques at last year’s event. (photo courtesy of OSU South Centers) Grape Workshop 2 – No more perfect grape vine than this one. Grape growers and wine producers alike will learn techniques used to grow the perfect fruit at next month’s Grape and Wine Analysis Workshop. (photo courtesy of OSU South Centers) |
