University of Nevada opens winery and offers public wine tasting

For more than eight years, researchers at the University of Nevada, Reno's College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources have been testing different wine grape to find the best varieties suited to Nevadas arid climate. Extensive experiments have led to identifying wine grapes that are best adapted to the region.

Reno, NV (PRWEB) January 25, 2004 --Nevada wine is here. The University of Nevadas College of Agriculture, Biotechnology and Natural Resources and the Nevada Agricultural Experiment Station are pleased to announce the grand opening of the Universitys Experimental Winery.

On January 30, 2004, the public will have a chance to sample wine grown at the Experiment Stations Valley Road Field Station, located on Valley Road between I-80 and Sadlier Way. The tasting is from 3 to 6 pm and will feature live entertainment and hors doeuvres.

For more than eight years, researchers in the College have been testing different wine grapes to find the best varieties suited to Nevadas arid climate. Extensive experiments have led to identifying wine grapes that are best adapted to the region.

Some varieties have adapted better than others," said Grant Cramer, a biochemistry professor who has led the research efforts since 1999. It is these varieties that will be showcased at the tasting, including a Cabernet Franc, White Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and others."

Our research has shown that wine grapes can be successfully grown in northern Nevada," Cramer said.

However, he warned that even though wine grape plots require significantly less water than other traditional Nevada crops, it may take a few years to generate profits.

The public is invited. Requested donations for the event begin at $25, with donations being applied to membership levels that include invitations to future Nevada wine tasting events and dinners, vineyard tours and private wine tasting events.

There is a limited capacity, however, so participants must pre-register for the event. For registration, contact Kitty Spreeman at (775) 784-4225 or spreeman@unr.edu.

Donations should be made out to the University of Nevada, Reno Foundation with special attention to Nevada Wine." All proceeds will go toward continuing the wine grape research at the University.

For more information, please contact Kitty Spreeman at (775) 784-4225, spreeman@unr.edu.