Wildfire Smoke Threats to Wine Grapes Take Center Stage at Washington Seminar

Researchers, winemakers, and industry professionals will gather on April 22, 2026, at Washington State University’s Tri-Cities campus in Richland for the annual WAVE seminar. The event, known as Washington Advancements in Enology and Viticulture, will focus entirely on the latest research and practical strategies related to smoke exposure in wine grapes and wine. Registration is now open for the full-day seminar, which runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and is limited to 100 attendees.

This year’s WAVE seminar is co-sponsored by the Washington State Wine Commission and Washington State University, with support from the West Coast Smoke Exposure Task Force. The event aims to connect scientific research with actionable insights for growers and winemakers facing challenges from wildfire smoke.

The day will begin with the WSU-Ravenholt lecture titled “Clearing the Smokescreen: Progress and Priorities in Smoke Exposure Research.” Dr. Arran Rumbaugh of the USDA-Agricultural Research Service will deliver the keynote address. Dr. Rumbaugh is recognized as USDA’s first dedicated “smoke scientist” and specializes in analytical chemistry to understand how smoke compounds develop in grapes and wine.

Throughout the seminar, attendees will hear from experts representing USDA, Washington State University, Oregon State University, and University of California-Davis. Sessions will cover topics such as sensory thresholds for smoke compounds in wine, atmospheric modeling of smoke distribution and aging, thiol chemistry, prevention strategies in vineyards, and mitigation techniques in wineries. A tasting of smoke-affected wines will allow participants to experience firsthand how smoke exposure can influence wine quality.

The seminar also includes a poster session showcasing current research projects related to smoke exposure. After the formal program concludes, a wine social will provide an opportunity for networking among researchers, growers, and winemakers.

The West Coast Smoke Exposure Task Force was formed in 2019 as a collaboration between industry members, researchers, and USDA representatives from California, Oregon, and Washington. Its goal is to coordinate research efforts and share information about managing smoke exposure risks across the region’s vineyards.

The Washington State Wine Commission represents all licensed wineries and grape growers in the state. Established by the legislature in 1987, it works to promote Washington wines through marketing initiatives funded by industry assessments.

Registration for the WAVE seminar costs $40 per person. More information about the event and registration details can be found at www.washingtonwine.org/wave/.