21
March
2025
Tasting Heritage Grapes with J. Stephen Casscles
Friday, March 21, 2025; 6:00 - 7:00 PM
Join local viticulturist and author J. Stephen Casscles, Esq. for an insightful talk on the Hudson Valley’s rich history of grape growing and winemaking, with a focus on grape varieties bred in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Based in Athens, NY, Stephen cultivates and evaluates over 85 grape varieties to identify those that are hardy and require fewer pesticides and insecticides than most commercially grown grapes. As climate change brings warmer, wetter conditions and extreme weather events—such as floods, droughts, and unseasonable frosts—his research seeks to highlight sustainable, economically viable grape varieties for the future.
During the talk, guests will have the opportunity to 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 explores 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
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