AN OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY WINE INSTITUTE

is reportedly in the works and could surface as early as this fall. There’s no arguing that the Oregon wine industry is gaining rapid recognition and the state government has already lent a helping hand. The institute received $1 million from lawmakers as a part of the 2007-2009 biennium and wine industry leaders have already generated half of the $2 million they committed to the institute. Until now, a lack of funds has prevented the Oregon wine industry from further researching its climate and growing conditions, which they claim is not always covered in California university studies.

Once operational, the institute will coordinate wine research at Oregon State, spread information to growers and help Oregon’s small wineries in business and marketing decisions.

The industry money will be used to pay the salary and expenses for a director and his or her support staff for five years. Oregon State University will dedicate between four and seven positions to the institute. The institute will be overseen by an advisory board.