CORVALLIS, Ore. — James Osborne, professor, enology Extension specialist and director of the Oregon Wine Research Institute at Oregon State University, has received the American Society for Enology and Viticulture’s Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence.

The award recognizes outstanding Extension work in enology and viticulture and honors professionals who translate research into practical tools and education for the wine and grape industry. It was recently renamed in memory of Anita Oberholster, the late University of California, Davis, cooperative Extension specialist.

Osborne will present at the ASEV National Conference in Boise in June. His talk, “Developing an Extension Palate: Connecting Enology Research with Industry Practice,” is scheduled as the Anita Oberholster Award for Extension Excellence Presentation.

Supporting Oregon’s wine industry

Osborne is widely known for connecting research-based knowledge with the needs of winemakers and grape growers in Oregon and beyond. Through OSU Extension and the Oregon Wine Research Institute in the College of Agricultural Sciences, he has helped the industry apply research to production challenges and improve wine quality and winemaking practices.

“Since he began at OSU, Dr. Osborne has greatly helped advance the wine industry as a whole and the Oregon wine industry in particular, through education, research and outreach,” said Elizabeth Clark, winemaker at Arlie Winery in Monmouth. “His guidance has been instrumental in improving wine quality and production practices across the region. His attention to the community and ability to organize both emergency Extension events together with regularly scheduled meetings makes him a great asset to Oregon.”

A microbiologist by training, Osborne focuses on how microorganisms influence wine quality, including fermentation processes and spoilage organisms. His research explores how these interactions can be used to improve sensory characteristics and prevent defects in wine.

Osborne earned his doctorate in food science from Washington State University and a master’s degree in microbiology from Massey University in New Zealand. Before joining Oregon State, he worked internationally in wine science, bringing a global perspective to his research and outreach.

Oregon State plays a key role in supporting Oregon’s nationally recognized wine industry through research, Extension and industry collaboration. Faculty members work directly with growers and winemakers to address production issues, improve grape and wine quality, respond to emerging challenges and strengthen the long-term success of vineyards and wineries across the state.

Osborne’s recognition continues a strong Oregon State presence in ASEV leadership. Patty Skinkis, professor and viticulture Extension specialist, received the ASEV Extension Distinction Award in 2018, before the award was renamed. Both Osborne and Skinkis have served as presidents of ASEV.