May 13, 2008

The Winemaster’s Weekend 2008 will be Feb. 29 and March 2 – headlining a slate of events planned by the viticulture and enology program at California State University, Fresno as it observes the 10th anniversary of its award-winning Fresno State Winery next month.

A media event on Nov. 3 noting the 10th anniversary kicks off the schedule of events during the 2007-08 academic year.

The most prestigious event showcasing Fresno State wines is the annual Winemaster’s Weekend at the Tenaya Lodge near Yosemite National Park.

Other events that are mainstays on the San Joaquin Valley wine circuit are Le Vin Nouveau on Nov. 15, marking release of wine made from the current year’s harvest in the style of Beaujolais Nouveau in France; Vino Italiano on April 17, which offers tasting of Italian varietals; and the Wine Garden during Vintage Days Wine from April 17 to 20.

The winery’s anniversary observance celebrates the first crush of grapes after Fresno State received a federal commercial bond to bottle, label and market its own wine. The university was the first in the nation with such a license, which gives students the most complete educational experience in winemaking from the vineyard to the consumer’s table.

The observance in October is the first of a two-part celebration. The second is planned in 2009 when this year’s crush will be bottled and sold with a commemorative label.

The Winemaster’s Weekend is in its seventh year. The event includes a wine tasting on Feb. 29 and wine education events, such as blending, pairing and judging wines on March 1. A five-course gourmet dinner featuring Fresno State student-produced food products and paired with Fresno State will be prepared by Tenaya Lodge chefs as the concluding attraction.

During the year, Fresno State’s viticulture and enology program participates in or hosts educational and industry events throughout the state. The highlight is Fresno State’s 11th annual Central Coast Viticulture and Enology Issues Conference on Feb. 21 for grape growers and winemakers.

Click here to view the viticulture and enology calendar in the online newsletter.