For the 2025-26 fiscal year, the OWB is funding $352,208 in Viticulture and Enology research grants. Below are the six funded projects that were recommended for funding by the Research Committee and approved by the Oregon Wine Board of Directors. Updates on these projects will be reported throughout the year.
Developing an RNAi topical application to combat Grapevine Red Blotch Disease
Dr. Laurent Deluc, Oregon State University Department of Botany and Plant Pathology
Grapevine Red Blotch Virus (GRBV) is a harmful pathogen for the wine industry, and there is no current effective management strategy to limit its spread. We aim to develop a new bio-pesticide method that releases GRBV-based small RNA stretches in vineyards to boost a significant immune defense system in plants, RNA interference. It could be compared to RNAi therapy in humans. We use an organic carbon-based nanomaterial named Carbon Dots to ensure the systemic effect and efficient uptake of the RNA stretches by grapevine plants. Using this approach, we aim to limit the GRBV spread and its negative impact on fruit composition. This would benefit the Oregon wine industry by providing a cost-effective and specific solution to Red Blotch disease.
This project’s final research goal is to build the foundational knowledge for developing a Spray-Induced Gene Silencing (SIGS) technology to manage Grape Red Blotch Disease in vineyards. Based on the RNA interference conserved mechanism, the Deluc lab identified a series of viral regions that could be used to enhance grapevine defense mechanisms in infected and healthy plants. An initial SIGS experiment, conducted in greenhouse conditions, showed encouraging results. The following objectives will be 1) to evaluate the extent of viral silencing following foliar sprays during grape berry development, and 2) to determine the extent of systemic silencing within a whole plant.
Project year 3 of 3
Investigating Vectors and Rootstock-Dependent Latency of Grapevine Red Blotch Virus
Dr. Robert Orpet, Oregon State University Southern Oregon Research and Extension Center
This research will address the widely held possibility that there are important insect vectors of grapevine red blotch virus other than the three-cornered alfalfa leafhopper (Spissistilus festinus). We will screen insects for the virus and quantify their occurrence in vineyards to lay the groundwork for effective management strategies specific to the pests. We will also investigate rootstock effects on grapevine red blotch symptom latency and fruit quality. This will improve our ability to protect against grapevine red blotch disease, which significantly impairs fruit quality and is currently managed by removing infected vines.
Project year 1 of 3
Biorational Control of Mealybugs in Vineyard
Dr. Vaughn Walton, Oregon State University
This project applies core Integrated Pest Management (IPM) principles to control grape mealybug using innovative tools such as mating disruption and entomopathogenic nematodes. The goal is to support grower adoption of environmentally friendly practices that promote sustainability amid evolving climate conditions, regulations, and pest pressures. Objectives include: develop and optimize mating disruption strategies for grape mealybug; refine and evaluate nematode formulations targeting grape and vine mealybugs; and disseminate knowledge on pest vectors and IPM strategies to growers, researchers, and students.
Project year 2 of 3
Field Evaluation of Drought Tolerant Rootstocks Using Stable Isotopes
Dr. Alec Levin, Oregon State University Southern Oregon Research and Extension Center
This project evaluates how different grapevine rootstocks perform under drought conditions to help Oregon winegrowers adapt to a changing climate. Using stable isotope analysis, researchers will measure how efficiently vines use water and nutrients across ten rootstock types. The study will track vine growth, yield, and grape quality under limited irrigation, simulating real-world water shortages. By identifying drought-tolerant rootstocks, the project will provide growers with long-term solutions for maintaining productivity and wine quality during dry years. Results will guide vineyard planning, improve resource efficiency, and enhance the resilience of Oregon’s wine industry in the face of increasing water scarcity.
Project year 3 of 3
Understanding Rootstock Impacts on Pinot Noir Vine Balance and Fruit Chemistry
Dr. Patty Skinkis, Oregon State University
A three-year trial is being conducted to understand Pinot noir performance on 18 rootstocks across two vineyards in the Willamette Valley, including a mature and a young vineyard. Rootstocks in the trial were selected based on their range of drought tolerance, nutrient uptake, vine vigor and yield. Plant growth, vine water and nutrient status, fruit yield, and fruit composition (Brix, pH, TA, malate, tartrate, YAN, and K) are being quantified and evaluated to determine vine size and fruit yield (balance metrics) relationships. Information from this project is allowing us to determine rootstocks best suited to future planting scenarios and wine production goals.
Project year 2 of 3
Is timing everything? The consequences of malolactic fermentation timing on the chemical and sensory properties of Pinot noir wine.
Dr. James Osborne, Oregon State University
The malolactic fermentation (MLF) is a key process in the production of red wines. While it is commonly conducted after the completion of alcoholic fermentation (sequential), it can also be induced at the same time (concurrent). In this project, different ML strains were used to conduct concurrent or sequential MLFs in Pinot noir wine. Sequential MLF produced wines with higher polymeric pigment than concurrent MLF, while the use of a Lactobacillus plantarum strain improved color in sequential MLFs. In addition, ML timing and bacteria strain affected the concentration of tannins in a strain-dependent manner. Findings from this study will help determine the implications of MLF timing and ML strain on Pinot noir chemical and sensory properties. This study will provide valuable information for winemakers regarding the management of MLF during red wine production.
Project year 2 of 2
