The Oregon Wine Board (OWB) and the Erath Family Foundation (EFF) are collaborating to support scientific research advancing grape growing and winemaking in Oregon. The organizations awarded nearly $400,000 to eight scientific research projects beginning July 1, 2026. This collaboration combines OWB’s commitment to scientific research that furthers the Oregon wine industry with support from EFF, expanding Oregon’s capacity to address the evolving needs of winegrowers and winemakers across the state.
OWB is providing $192,000 in funding to support three continuing projects. EFF will fund five new research initiatives recommended by OWB’s Research Committee, totaling $206,000. Collectively, the projects span emerging challenges and opportunities in vineyard management, sustainability, pest and disease control, and wine quality. Summaries of the projects can be found on the OWB website.
The OWB Research Committee lent their time and expertise to this year’s grant review process. This group of viticulturists and winemakers from around the state reviewed, discussed, and prioritized the 20 applications received in response to a Request for Proposals issued this past winter. The Committee recommended a slate of projects for funding after assessing the scientific strength and relevance of each proposal.
Read the full release announcing the OWB and EFF research collaboration here. — Story Contributed by the Oregon Wine Board.