Upper left, Molly Scott, Justin Vineyards and Winery; upper right, Adam Tolmach, Ojai Vineyard; lower left, Chuck Wagner, Caymus Vineyards; and lower right, Andy Walker, University of California, Davis.
The Unified Grape and Wine Symposium is always a great place to try wines from all over the country. This year’s conference, while it was held virtually, nevertheless presented a tasting event to address the concept that while the world is changing, the vinifera varietals grown in California have remained the same. Winegrowers are dealing with climate changes, different consumer preferences and market conditions, labor availability, and a changing regulatory environment. In spite of these challenges, many growers have resisted planting new varieties of grapes.