The Horticultural Research Center (HRC) was busy on September 9, 2023, with dozens of visitors arriving for the Annual Grape Extension Field Day! The event was hosted as an open house, gathering 15 professors, graduate students, and research staff together to educate the public about recent advancements in grape research at the U. Visitors included homeowners, grape growers, and local wine enthusiasts who learned about everything from the chemistry of smoke contamination to consumer preference for new types of table grapes.
Over 50 varieties of grapes were also available for tasting. This tradition has become a beloved part of the annual field day, and provides consumers with a rare opportunity: time to taste and compare dozens of varieties that may or may not yet be widely available at nurseries and grocery stores. Highlights this year included unreleased cultivars with flavors reminiscent of lychee, blueberries, and even pineapple!
Keep scrolling to see the grape team in action:
