American Vineyard Magazine reports that Oregon State University will begin major trials of disease-resistant wine grape varieties in 2027, believed to be the first research programme of its type on the US West Coast. Trials at vineyards in the Willamette and Rogue valleys will examine about ten cultivars at each location, assessing vine growth, yield, fruit composition and eventual wine quality. The research is partly driven by the heavy fungicide requirements of traditional Vitis vinifera varieties, particularly against powdery mildew, with Oregon growers sometimes making between five and 15 applications per season. Researchers hope resistant varieties could ultimately reduce costs, chemical inputs and environmental impact while still producing commercially acceptable wines.