Q&A: Dick Erath
Oregon Pinot Pioneer
Former engineer Dick Erath was first inspired to pursue winemaking in 1965 following an early garage experiment. After completing coursework at University of California, Davis, in 1968, Erath moved his family to the Willamette Valley. An old logger’s cabin on 49 acres would serve as home – and impromptu winery for many years. The following spring, he planted 23 varieties in the Dundee Hills, including Pinot Noir. By 1972, Erath had produced his first commercial wine of 216 cases at Knudsen Vineyard. Intrigued with French varieties, he soon became instrumental in importing French clones to Oregon. In 2006, he sold the winery and brand to Chateau Ste. Michelle. He now lives in Vancouver, Washington, with his wife, author C.J. David Erath. The Erath Family Foundation continues its contributions to the industry.
The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Pierce’s Disease (PD)/Glassy-winged Sharpshooter (GWSS) Board approved more than $2.1 million in new funding for 12 research projects ranging from one to three years related to Pierce’s Disease, grapevine viruses and vectors at an April 19 meeting held via web conference from Sacramento.
The Board received 18 research proposals for fiscal year (FY) 2021-22 from its annual request for proposal (RFP) and approved recommendations of the research screening committee, chaired by Steve McIntyre of Monterey Pacific Vineyards. The Board forwards its recommendations to the CDFA Secretary for final approval that historically have always been approved.