Brock University Launches CCOVI Lecture Series on Industry Knowledge Mobilization

Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI) has partnered with Scott Labs Canada to launch a new Tech Talk lecture series to help keep Ontario and Canada at the forefront of the cool climate wine industry.

The series will connect a range of researchers and specialists with grape growers, winemakers, cider and perry producers, and vintners and retailers.

Kicking off the series on Tuesday, May 14 is Michael Sobe, Head of Experimental Research with Erbslöh, an internationally recognized German beverage company specializing in wine, beer and juice to spirits.

An expert of filtration and enzyme usage, Sobe will explore PIWI grape varieties, which require less physical and chemical intervention, as a sustainable option for Ontario winemakers. He will also focus on important volatile compounds, specifically volatile thiols that contribute to the aromatic profile of wines.

“We are very much looking forward to this presentation and the discussion to follow as we aim to equip grape growers and winemakers with the best tools and knowledge,” said Barb Tatarnic, CCOVI Manager of Professional Studies and Outreach. “With an emphasis on meaningful discussions and practical solutions, it is exciting to be connecting international experts with the industry through this outreach initiative with Scott Labs.”

Matthias Boss, Winemaking Production Specialist at Scott Laboratories, says the company is “thrilled to be partnering with CCOVI to help drive meaningful discussions in a rapidly changing world.”

“Across the industry we see the drive to decrease chemical usage and reduce greenhouse emissions in response to shifting climatic conditions, and we are poised to connect Canadian growers with other cool climate specialists from around the world such as Michael Sobe.”