Upcoming Meetings

About Technical Meetings

As part of our continuing commitment to education, the VVA hosts annual seminars for members to give them the opportunity to learn from prominent researchers, industry representatives and fellow growers. Featuring speakers from around the country, our multi-day Winter Technical and one-day Summer Technical, held in cooperation with the Virginia Cooperative Extension Service (VCE), highlight important discoveries, trends and topics related to growing wine grapes. As a member, what can you expect from a technical meeting?

At our Winter Technical, you can look forward to:

  • An extensive series of viticulture workshops and presentations scheduled over three days, many led by VCE experts.
  • Time to socialize with fellow growers and colleagues.
  • A luncheon for all attendees.
  • The presentation of the annual Grower of the Year award.
  • Vendor exhibits featuring the latest in products and services (link to vendor list below).

At our Summer Technical, you can look forward to:

  • A one-day workshop conducted at a member vineyard that focuses on topics of particular interest to growers.
  • A summer social to cap off the day.

Thank You to Our 2022 Technical Meeting Sponsors

Corporate Sponsors:
American National
Vigneron Toy Store

Lunch Sponsor:
Helena

Meeting Sponsors:
Lafitte Cork & Capsule
Wine & Beer Supply

Thank You to Our 2021 Winter Technical Sponsors

Gold Sponsors:
Winchester Equipment Company
American National

Silver Sponsors:
AgBiome/Howler Fungicide
Helena Chemical 

Technical Meeting Summaries

Summer 2018

When: June 13
Where: Brown Bear Vineyard, Woodstock
Highlights: The program will include a cover crop presentation by Dr. Gill Giese, Extension Viticulture Specialist and assistant professor at New Mexico State University, and an “Ask the Grower” panel discussion focusing on trellis modifications and vine retraining, small vineyard mechanization and vineyard re-plant timing, as well as a Summer Social.

Winter 2018

When: Feb. 23-35, 2018
Where: Charlottesville Omni Hotel
Highlights: Presentations included the nutritional implications of nitrogen; labor issues; updates on Spotted Wing Dropsophila; vineyard floor management.

Summer 2017

When: July 10-12, 2017
Where: Charlottesville Omni Hotel
Highlights: Presentations included pioneering wine grape varieties adapted to the challenges of the East (part of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture Eastern Section Conference); seasonal updates and vintage experiences. 

Winter 2017

When: Feb. 23-35, 2017
Where: Charlottesville Omni Hotel
Highlights: Presentations included the potential of sprayable frost protection; disease management and preventative practices; vineyard financial calculator; applied research results and tastings sponsored by the Winemakers Research Exchange; a new growers workshop.

Summer 2016

When: June 8, 2016
Where: Veritas Vineyard & Winery, Afton
Highlights: Presentations and updates on the importance of clean plant materials; vineyard tour and BBQ at Veritas.

Winter 2016

When: Feb. 23-35, 2017
Where: Charlottesville Omni Hotel
Highlights: A look at potassium recommendations; a focus on petit manseng as a dessert wine, plus tasting; research updates on crown gall and nitrogen; pesticide management & safety re-certification for attending members.

About the Image

Top photo: The VVA’s 2016 Summer Technical Meeting held at Veritas Vineyard & Winery in Afton included a workshop on clean plant material, a tour of a newly established block and a barbecue and social. Photo by Chris Garsson