National Conference Week is Here!

It’s Not Too Late to Register!

If you missed registration, it’s not too late. You can still register on-line or register on-site at the Portola Hotel. Registration on-site is open starting on Monday at 3 pm until Thursday at 7 pm. Visit the daily schedule page for specific dates and times.

Tuesday, June 17 –  Smoke Taint Symposium

The 76^th ASEV National Conference kicks off this week with a full-day Smoke Taint Symposium on June 17 from 9 am – 5 pm. The symposium brings together leading experts in air quality, vineyard physiology, enology and sensory science to present the latest research on wildfire-related smoke taint in winegrapes. Key topics include modeling how smoke forms and deposits, understanding barrier sprays and smoke composition, conducting dose-response exposure trials, deploying sensing tools for early detection, evaluating decision-support systems for smoke-threatened vineyards, and assessing both small-batch fermentation outcomes and consumer reactions to smoke-impacted wines. The event will conclude with a panel discussion followed by a poster session and reception showcasing cutting-edge studies, including new approaches in rapid detection and smoke-impact mitigation.

Wednesday, June 18 – A Full Day of Insight and Engagement

Wednesday offers a dynamic blend of technical research, keynote talks, and opportunities to connect. The day opens with a welcome from the ASEV President and Monterey County Vintners & Growers Association, followed by morning sessions focused on wine chemistry and strategies for managing grapevine Red Blotch virus.

Midday highlights include the ASEV Extension Distinction Award presentation by Dr. Justin Scheiner, who will share insights on stakeholder engagement in the post-pandemic era, and the Honorary Research Lecture by Dr. Markus Keller, exploring the role of water in viticulture in his talk, “Simply Water: H₂O and Prejudice.” Later in the day, keynote speaker Dr. Laura Catena will discuss alcohol’s evolving place in U.S. dietary guidelines—a timely and thought-provoking topic.

The afternoon continues with concurrent sessions on sensory science and vineyard water management, followed by rapid-fire student flash talks.

The day concludes with a poster session and the Monterey County regional wine reception—an ideal setting to engage with new research and connect with colleagues.

Thursday, June 19 – A Thoughtful Close to a Week of Discovery

The final day of the ASEV National Conference offers a rich mix of research, recognition, and connection. The day begins at 8 AM with registration and a full-day poster session, providing a last opportunity to explore innovative research and connect with presenters. At 9 AM, longtime viticulture advisor Larry Bettiga will receive the ASEV Merit Award and share reflections from more than 40 years in the field in his talk, “In the Question of Vine Development – Does Size Matter?”

The morning continues with parallel sessions—one focused on strategies to assess and manage smoke taint in wine, and another on regenerative viticulture and soil health. ASEV members will gather at noon for the Annual Business Meeting, followed by afternoon technical sessions that delve into microbial influences on winemaking and the latest virus research from the PD/GWSS Board. The day wraps up with a joint session exploring how vineyard conditions shape wine profiles.

The conference concludes with the Student–Industry Mixer at 5 PM—a relaxed opportunity to celebrate the next generation of industry leaders and reflect on a week of learning and collaboration.