Two years ago, I wrote an article on AI in the vineyard for WBM. Feel free to read that article here…if you want. Otherwise, my basic argument was that although AI will eventually play a role in how we farm grapes, it’s a long way off compared to other industries and even other crops. We who grow grapes are the last ones to see such innovation. And since then, AI has grown exponentially. If two years ago you were playing around with Chat GPT to create bizarrely distorted images and learn about tax loopholes, you can now go onto the likes of Claude and have it just create a website for you from a single prompt. Chatbots like this have essentially eliminated the need for entry-level coders. However Claude is a computer, so it makes sense that it’s gotten very good at writing code for other computers. Similarly Chat GPT has digested the entire internet, and curates any answer for you by plucking it from its vast network of information. Sometimes its correct, and other t

When we launched the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast in 2016, we weren’t sure where it would go. Now, 300 episodes later, it’s become a go-to resource for growers, researchers, educators, and wine industry professionals dedicated to sustainability. To mark this milestone, we flipped the mic around and interviewed our host, Craig Macmillan, PhD — long-time vineyard and winery professional, educator, and now podcasting veteran — to reflect on some favorite episodes, meaningful moments, and what’s ahead. From Zoom Recordings to Global Reach Craig began hosting when the podcast was just an idea sparked by the Vineyard Team’s goal to make sustainable winegrowing knowledge more accessible. “I wasn't a podcast listener at all,” Craig admits. “But I said sure, why not? Let's try it.” Since then, the show has featured scientists, growers, and innovators from all over the world, creating a ripple effect of conversations and c

Presented by Vineyard Team, the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast continued to be a go‑to resource for vineyard and winery professionals, delivering timely, practical insights straight from researchers and growers shaping the future of sustainable viticulture. From hybrid grapes and soil health to AI‑driven climate strategies and market dynamics, last year’s five most listened‑to episodes offered information listeners can apply immediately in their operations.  Beyond Foxy: The Case for Hybrid Winegrapes Episode 274 | Listen now  Forget everything you thought you knew about hybrid grapes. Adam Huss (Centralas Cellars) makes the case for these resilient, quality-driven varieties and why they’re gaining traction in a warming world.  Fungicide Resistance in Powdery and Downy Mildew: 10 Years of Vineyard Research Episode 278 | Listen now  Ismail Ahmed Ismail (South Australian Research and Development Institute) unpacks a decade of data on fungicide resist

Our Exhibitor community is growing stronger than ever with the return of many of our fantastic Business Members, as well as some exciting new faces! Wondering who you'll meet at the Sustainable Ag Expo this year? Check out the exhibitor map to see who will be there and where you can find them. Come network with these sustainable ag professionals and get up to date on the ever-changing practices, research, and innovations in viticulture and ag business.     Pssst! Want all the event details in one place? Visit the FAQ page to get answers to your Expo questions. Still have questions? Reach out to Hayli@vineyardteam.org

Admeo is happy to share that ASEV has a student membership option for $50.  Thank you to ASEV for making your organization - and all its benefits - accessible to students! Please see the flyer for additional information.  ASEV Student Flyer.pdf

Are you or your parent/guardian employed or contracted by the California vineyard and winery industry?  Mark your calendar: Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship applications are open from February 3 through March 31, 2025. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need, academic excellence, and community, work and/or caregiver responsibilities.  Multi-year scholarship awards range from $1,000 to $6,000 per student per year. The number of scholarships awarded is based on fund availability. Visit our website to learn more about the application process. 2 Ways to Share  Both are available in English and Spanish! 8.5x11’ flyer  Paycheck inserts: Spanish | English  In partnership with Must! Charities.

The 2024 Sustainable Ag Expo is set to take place from November 11-13, 2024. This year’s event promises an unparalleled educational experience, offering over 20 continuing education hours through both online and in-person programs. Attendees will have the opportunity to delve into the latest innovations and research in pest management strategies, automation and mechanization, soil health, and more. The Expo boasts an impressive lineup of speakers from prestigious institutions such as UC Davis, Oregon State University, Cal Poly, and UC Berkeley. These experts will present cutting-edge findings and practices that are shaping the future of sustainable agriculture.   Take a Sneak Peak: Monday, November 11, 5:00-6:00 pm Speaker: Fritz Westover, Westover Viticulture Dormant Grapevine Pruning & Vine Training: Are we Slowly Killing our Vines?: Hear from our Expo Headliner about the impact of pruning and training on vine health, the extent of problems caused by diseases versus w

We’ve been working all year to bring you the latest viticulture and technology at the Sustainable Ag Expo: 36 experts 13 online courses 63 exhibitors 3 sessions with Fritz Westover 38 gallons of coffee 9 equipment companies showcased  2 kegs of beer 1 exclusive welcome event 45.5 total CE hours 100% grower-driven. Get your ticket today.

The 2024 Sustainable Ag Expo is set to be an unforgettable event, offering a unique blend of educational sessions, exhibitors, and exclusive networking opportunities November 11th - 13th, 2024. Here are three reasons you won't want to miss at this year’s event:   Reason #1: Welcome Event Featuring an Exclusive Presentation  Kick off your experience with a pre-Expo event on Monday, November 11th, from 5:00-7:00pm at beautiful Center of Effort Winery in Arroyo Grande, California. Expo Headliner Fritz Westover presents, Dormant Grapevine Pruning & Vine Training: Are we Slowly Killing our Vines? This intimate conversation delves into the critical impact pruning and training have on vine health, and discusses whether diseases or improper techniques are more detrimental. Attendees will walk away with pruning strategies that minimize disease. Westover will also share methods for in-season vine training and summer pruning to enhance vine longevity using

Did you make it to American Society for Enology and Viticulture - Eastern Section? 🍷 Our Product Specialist Benjamin R. Eyer attended and had a wonderful time chatting with everyone while also visiting wineries in the area. For your gracious hospitality, thank you to Gervasi Vineyard Resort & Spa, Ferrante Winery & Ristorante, Baci Winery, Kosicek Vineyards. Congratulations to Aude Watrelot on your appointment to Chair of ASEV East. 🥂   Thank you to everyone who made ASEV East happen - we are looking forward to next year’s conference! 😊