The Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence Presentation

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Developing an Extension Palate: Connecting Enology Research with Industry Practice

The Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence Recipient
Dr. James Osborne, Oregon State University, Corvallis

The ASEV Extension Distinction Award is given to a current ASEV member and extension educator based on their contributions to enology or viticulture through their extension program, or the translation of novel research findings into commercially applicable tools for enologists or viticulturists.

The award, recently renamed in honor of Dr. Anita Oberholster, recognizes individuals whose extension programs and applied research have made a meaningful impact on the wine and grape industry.

James Osborne, PhD, director of the Oregon Wine Research Institute and Professor and Enology Extension Specialist at Oregon State University, Corvallis, has been named the recipient of The Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence, presented by the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV).

Osborne’s work focuses on helping winemakers better understand and manage the role of microorganisms in wine production. His research on organisms such as Brettanomyces, non-Saccharomyces yeasts and Oenococcus oeni has contributed to improved approaches to fermentation management, wine quality and stability. His earlier work on malolactic fermentation and microbial interactions continues to inform industry best practices.

In his role as Oregon’s statewide enology extension specialist, Osborne delivers technical workshops, seminars and hands-on programming designed to translate research findings into practical application. His work has supported more informed decision-making across Oregon wineries and strengthened the connection between university research and industry needs.

Related Links

2026 ASEV The Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence Recipient Press Release