American Vineyard Foundation Announces Funding For Industry Research in 2025
Napa, CA, June 15, 2025 – When vineyard diseases threaten to wipe out entire harvests, when droughts leave growers struggling with every drop of water, and when invasive pests attack the vines that feed America’s wine industry, there’s one organization working tirelessly behind the scenes to find solutions.
The American Vineyard Foundation (AVF) just announced nearly $850,000 in funding for twelve groundbreaking research projects that will help protect vineyards, conserve precious water resources, and ensure the future of American wine production. This isn’t just about wine—it’s about preserving the livelihoods of thousands of grape growers and the agricultural heritage of entire regions.
Fighting the Battles That Matter Most
The research projects funded this year tackle the industry’s most pressing threats head-on. Scientists will develop new weapons against Grapevine Red Blotch Virus, a devastating disease that can destroy entire vineyard blocks. Other teams are pioneering biological pest control methods that protect vines from destructive mealybugs and nematodes without relying on harsh chemicals.
With water becoming increasingly scarce across wine regions, AVF-funded researchers are also developing more innovative irrigation strategies that help growers do more with less, protecting both their crops and the environment. Meanwhile, cutting-edge work on tannin chemistry promises to unlock new possibilities for winemaking quality and consistency.
“Every project we fund has real people behind it—family farmers, small business owners, and entire communities whose futures depend on healthy, productive vineyards,” said AVF Board Chair, Nick Dokoozlian. “When we invest in research, we’re investing in solutions that will protect these livelihoods for generations to come.”
A Grassroots Success Story
What makes AVF’s impact even more remarkable is how they do it. Operating entirely on voluntary contributions from industry members, the Foundation represents proper grassroots support—wine professionals investing in their future. This year, more than sixty industry experts from over forty companies volunteered their time to review fifty research proposals, ensuring every dollar goes toward the most promising and practical solutions.
Since 1978, AVF has been the quiet force driving innovation in American viticulture. Today, virtually every aspect of modern grape growing and winemaking has been touched by AVF-funded research—from the rootstocks that resist pests to the fermentation techniques that create consistent quality.
Beyond funding research, AVF ensures discoveries reach the people who need them most. Through regional seminars and educational outreach, the Foundation bridges the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and real-world applications, helping growers and vintners stay ahead of emerging challenges.
How to Get Involved
The list of funded research projects and summaries from previous years is available here: Funded Research – American Vineyard Foundation
As a 501(c)3 public charity (Tax ID: 94-2638230), all contributions to AVF are tax-deductible. Every donation directly supports American grape growers and wine producers facing an ever-changing landscape of agricultural challenges.
In an industry where the next harvest is never guaranteed, the American Vineyard Foundation provides something invaluable: hope backed by science, solutions driven by community, and research that keeps the American wine dream alive.
