Join local viticulturist and author J. Stephen Casscles, Esq. for an engaging talk on grape varieties bred in the 19th and 20th centuries in the Hudson Valley and the region’s rich history of grape growing and winemaking.

Stephen’s work in Athens, NY, involves cultivating and evaluating over 85 different grape varieties to determine which are the hardiest and can thrive with fewer pesticides and insecticides than most commercially grown varieties. As climate change brings warmer, wetter conditions and more extreme weather events—including floods, droughts, and unseasonable frosts—his research aims to identify sustainable, economically viable grape varieties for the future.

During the talk, we’ll sample and discuss wines made from these locally bred Heritage grape varieties. Afterward, Stephen will be available to sign copies of his book, Grapes of the Hudson Valley, which details over 200 grape varieties that can be grown sustainably in the region while producing high-quality wine.

Non-Member Admission (21+) $15
Member Admission (21+) $13.50