Grape harvest workshop scheduled at local vineyard

A grape harvest workshop is planned Friday, July 31, at Blue Sky Vineyard and Winery near Makanda.

The workshop begins at 5:30 p.m. Blue Sky is located in northeast Union County at 3150 S. Rocky Comfort Rd.

The workshop is being sponsored by Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, the Viticulture and Enology Science and Technology Alliance at Rend Lake College, University of Illinois Extension and the Illinois Department of Agriculture.

The workshop is designed to give participants hands-on experience working with special equipment used in measuring and determining grape ripeness.

In addition to vineyard sampling of differing grape varieties and other fruits, winemakers are also invited to bring wine samples for analysis as well. 

Workshop participants will meet at Blue Sky Vineyard and Winery.

Registration fees will be taken at the door starting at 5:30 p.m. and will be $25 per person. The program is scheduled to run from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. and will include refreshments.

Those who plan to attend are advised to dress for the weather, since some of the workshop time will be spent in the vineyard.

This is a hands-on workshop, and participants are encouraged to bring their personal gear, including pruners, gloves and work boots.

All testing equipment will be supplied, but participants are encouraged to bring their personal refractometer and/or portable pH meter.

For more information, contact Elizabeth Wahle at 618- 692-9434.