Blending Tradition and Innovations: Elizabeth Tomasino’s Journey with ASEV and Wine Science

Elizabeth Tomasino, a professor of enology at Oregon State University, has made significant strides in the field of wine science. Her work focuses on the intricate relationship between chemistry and sensory analysis in wine, striving to understand how various processes affect wine quality. Elizabeth’s journey in enology began with a master’s degree from Cornell University and has since taken her across the globe, from making wine in Australia to conducting pivotal research in New Zealand. Now, as a full professor at Oregon State, she continues to lead cutting-edge research that supports the wine industry in navigating the challenges posed by climate change, sustainability, and evolving consumer preferences.

Elizabeth recently joined the ASEV Board of Directors, driven by her passion for advancing the industry through collaboration and innovation. Her involvement with ASEV dates back to her time as a graduate student, where she was a scholarship recipient and an active member. Reflecting on her decision to join the board, Elizabeth shared, “If I wasn’t involved, at least at some point in time, I think that would be a great disservice to this organization that has done a great service to me.” Her commitment to the organization stems from a desire to contribute to its ongoing efforts to support research, education, and industry growth.

One of Elizabeth’s current major projects is chairing the upcoming Smoke Taint Symposium. This event is set to address one of the wine industry’s most pressing issues—smoke taint, which has become a significant concern due to increasing wildfires. Elizabeth’s leadership in organizing the symposium highlights her dedication to tackling real-world problems faced by winemakers, ensuring that the latest research and solutions are shared with the broader industry.

Beyond her professional achievements, Elizabeth has a surprising way to unwind—through music. She holds a bachelor’s degree in vocal performance and once sang opera. Although her career path took a different turn, Elizabeth still finds joy in singing with choirs, including the Eugene Symphony choir. This artistic outlet not only helps her maintain a balanced life but also reflects the creativity and discipline she brings to her work in enology.

Get to know ASEV’s newest director by joining us at the 2025 National Conference in Monterey, California, on June 16-19, 2025. She is chair of the much-anticipated Smoke Taint Symposium, taking place on June 17, where she and a panel of speakers will share findings on this important research.