Researchers with the WSU Viticulture and Enology Program seek volunteer panelists in the Tri-Cities, Wash. area to assist with wine sensory evaluation. Three sensory panels will be held summer 2017:

Panel 1-Red Wine Color and Astringency/Mouthfeel (June)

Panel 2-Red Wine Aroma and Mouthfeel (July)

Panel 3-White Wine Aroma and Mouthfeel (August)

Ideal candidates are wine-consuming adults 21 and older with basic wine knowledge. Volunteers will be asked to attend a series of hour-long group training sessions where they will learn about wine characteristics and be taught how to evaluate wines.

Once the training is complete, panelists will schedule a time to conduct independent sensory evaluations.

Training and evaluations will be held at the Ste. Michelle Wine Estates WSU Wine Science Center at 359 University Drive in Richland, Wash.

Results from the sensory panels will support ongoing WSU viticulture and enology research that helps the Northwest region stay competitive in the national and global wine market, while providing sustainable growth in the industry.

Space on each panel is limited. To participate, email caroline.merrell@wsu.edu and indicate which panel(s) you would like to join.