Thank you to the growers and winemakers from around the state who answered the call to provide input helping guide the Oregon Wine Board in allocating resources addressing our industry’s challenges and opportunities.
As promised, we raffled off five tickets to the 2018 Oregon Wine Symposium to those whose names were chosen randomly from a list of industry survey respondents. They are: Sadie Drury of Seven Hills Vineyard; Andrea Jacoby of Cowhorn Vineyard and Garden; Jim Maguire of Furioso Vineyards; Dave Petterson of Vista Hills Vineyard; and Karen Saul of Andanté Vineyard. We will contact you shortly with details on using your free pass.
In that survey launched earlier this year, we asked for your perspectives in ranking the importance of various initiatives falling within the OWB’s Research, Marketing and Education programs. The results are summarized below and for reference are compared to those from previous years.
As you can see, media outreach, consumer marketing (focused primarily on wine tourism), education on best business practices, and grape growing research to improve farming practices have consistently ranked among your most pressing concerns. The OWB’s spending for the coming year mirrors those priorities with significant infusions of funding going to scientific research and to activities focused on expanding market acceptance and enthusiasm for Oregon wines. We also see market research and analytics confirming opportunities to further expand awareness and availability of Oregon wines. We’ll keep you updated as the industry’s research and marketing committees work with the Board and our management team to deliver across the areas of greatest importance to your businesses.
Finally, please note that the industry’s nominating committee is accepting applications until Sept. 30 from volunteers interested in being considered by the governor for appointment to the Oregon Wine Board of Directors. The next three-year terms begin in January. Scroll down to the Opportunities section below for more details.
Cheers,
Tom Danowski
President
MARKETING
Last Chance: Confirm Your Tasting Room Information for Touring Guide
The OWB marketing plan has a strategic focus on educating and engaging trade influencers to increase the availability of Oregon wine, in particular on-premise buyers across the country. As part of these efforts, the OWB participated as a sponsor at the TEXSOM Conference in Las Colinas, Texas for the first time on Aug. 12. Read a recap of this sponsorship and learn how to get involved with TEXSOM.
Now Accepting Nominations for 2018 Oregon Wine A-List Awards
Think about your best restaurant accounts around the country, your favorite local gem and that wine director who always seems to go above and beyond with their Oregon wine list and programming. Sound like someplace – or someone – you know? Recognize their dedication to Oregon with a nomination for a 2018 Oregon Wine A-List Award before Oct. 31. Submit a nomination.
RESEARCH
Updated Summer 2017 Weather and Climate Summary and Forecast
On Aug. 4, Dr. Greg Jones published an updated Summer 2017 weather and climate summary and forecast. This report looks back at July conditions, provides an updated drought watch, and forecasts August, September and October 2017. Read the report.
CALLS FOR WINE
2018 Oregon Chardonnay Celebration Call for Submissions
The Oregon Chardonnay Celebration (OCC) is now accepting submissions for its 2018 event, to be held on Feb. 24 at the Allison Inn & Spa in Newberg. Any winery wishing to be considered for inclusion in the 2018 OCC can submit samples by Sept. 8. See participation requirements and submission details.
Paul Gregutt and Wine Enthusiast Magazine Seek Submissions
Wine Enthusiast is producing a “bookazine” focused on the Pacific Northwest. Writer Paul Gregutt has asked the industry for more wines to review, to alert him about any new releases, and to be kept informed on your winery’s activities. View Paul’s complete request and submission details.
OPPORTUNITIES
Apply Now to be Considered for the Oregon Wine Board of Directors
Want to reach hundreds of thousands of wine lovers in our region? Northwest Wine Radio seeks winemakers to interview for their winter 2018 schedule. Taping takes place on select Mondays in Seattle and participation is free. View the schedule and learn more.
Massachusetts Distributor Seeking New Oregon Producer Partners
Wine Cask Imports, a small importer/distributor in Massachusetts, is seeking to expand its Oregon portfolio. They have been in operation for twelve years and their team of four salespeople focuses on the high-population regions of Boston and the North and South Shores. Get more details and contact information.
OTHER NEWS
Welcome Reception for Dr. Greg Jones at Linfield College
Linfield College president Thomas Hellie invites members of the Oregon wine industry to an informal reception on Sept. 20 to welcome Dr. Greg Jones. Dr. Jones joined the Linfield staff on Aug. 15 as the new director of wine education. Get details and RSVP.
Linfield College Launches New Wine Archive Website
The Oregon Wine History Archive (OWHA) was founded at Linfield College in 2011. This summer, a new user-friendly website that houses the OWHA’s interviews, photos and scanned physical documents was launched. New materials are always being accepted as the OWHA builds its content. View the new site and learn about contributing.
Al MacDonald / LIVE Wine Studies Scholarship Fund
The Al MacDonald/LIVE Wine Studies Scholarship Fund was created to honor Al MacDonald’s work as an educator and pioneer of sustainable agriculture. A new scholarship in his name will assist first-generation students of color in pursuing an education through the Wine Studies Program at Chemeketa Community College. Learn more and contribute to the fund.
List or Search Grapes for Sale on the Marketplace
If you are looking for a buyer for your grapes, or are interested in buying grapes, don’t forget to check out the Marketplace on the OWB’s industry website. In 2016, the Marketplace replaced the Grape Matching Service and, based on industry feedback, the Marketplace also includes listings for bulk wine, equipment and job opportunities. Post items for sale or visit the Marketplace to search items for sale.
Come Share Your Winery’s Story with the OWB Team
We’d like to get to know you. Wineries are invited to OWB’s office to share their wines and brand story with us at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesdays. This is a great opportunity for you to get to know our organization better, ask questions of us and share your suggestions. Learn more and sign up for a visit.
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