The Experiment Station is conducting research that ultimately can help improve the quality of grapes and winemaking in Colorado. The Colorado grape industry has grown since 1985 when there were between 15 and 20 acres of grapes in the state. Now there are over 800 acres of vineyards producing grapes and hundreds more planted that will begin to produce grapes over the next few years.

With this increase in grape acreage, there is a need for research. Current studies at the Experiment Station are looking at crop load, the grapes’ rush to maturity before the skins mature, and a study looking at the vigor of grapes. They are also looking at the grape varieties that perform best in different areas of Colorado. With data generated from the studies, Colorado’s grape and wine industry should continue to expand.