Dam Good Connections - Sacramento - Resilient Research in Wine: Tackling Smoke Taint with Science

Dam Good Connections returns to Sacramento for another incredible chance to make personal and professional connections.

Whether you're a serious vintner or a casual connoisseur, join us to raise a glass with fellow Beavers and learn about how the growing prevalence of wildfires on the West Coast increases the risk of smoke impacting wine grapes and wine.

This tastefully curated evening of science, conversation and connection features a lively discussion with Professor and Enology Extension Specialist James Osborne, director of the Oregon Wine Research Institute at Oregon State and the 2025-26 president of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture. Osborne will share how OSU researchers have led the way in developing new strategies and tools for the wine industry to mitigate the impact of smoke taint.

Bonus: Meet local ambassadors who help keep the Oregon State community active in the Sacramento region and be sure to pick up your free one-of-a-kind Sacramento Beavs sticker!

Dam Good Connections — Sacramento
Saturday, April 18
5–7 p.m.
Jackrabbit Brewing Co. | The Taproom
1323 Terminal Street, West Sacramento, CA 95691

PRICING
$25 Nonmembers
$20 OSU Alumni Association Members (Join today!)
$18 Youth (ages 8–16)
Children 7 and under: Free

Pricing includes admission, one drink ticket and heavy appetizers. 

Questions? Please reach out to us at 541-737-2351 or osualum@osualum.com.  

About the speaker:

Since 2023, Professor James Osborne has served as director of the Oregon Wine Research Institute at Oregon State University. He works closely with growers, winemakers, researchers and staff to translate science into practical, real-world solutions in support of the Oregon wine industry. A globally recognized professor and enology Extension specialist in OSU’s Department of Food Science and Technology, his research focuses on the impact of wine microorganisms on wine quality. A recognized, longtime leader in the American Society for Enology and Viticulture, Osborne was appointed as ASEV president for 2025-26.

Dates, times and other details for in-person events are subject to change.

Photos and videos from this event may be used in Oregon State University promotional materials. By attending this event, you consent to have your photo taken and appear in videos and allow use of these photographs and videos by OSU, the Foundation or the Alumni Association for promotional purposes.