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 Dr.
S. Kaan Kurtural, a viticulture researcher and instructor from the
University of Kentucky, will join California State University, Fresno’s
Department of Viticulture and Enology as the inaugural Bronco Wine Co.
Viticulture Chair.
Kurtural will conduct research focusing on wine-grape production and
vineyard management in the San Joaquin Valley, said Dr. Robert Wample,
chair and director of the Department of Viticulture and Enology and
Viticulture and Enology Research Center.
Kurtural also will teach undergraduate and graduate classes in general
and mechanized viticulture and also work closely with Valley grape
growers to improve efficiencies and quality.
Kurtural will be introduced to the grape and wine industry on Aug. 12 at
Fresno State Grape Day, a field day and open house for growers and
winemakers to get acquainted with the university’s viticulture and
enology facilities and faculty.
The new chair is funded as part of a 10-year pledge to the department
through the College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology by
Ceres-based Bronco Wine Co., the nation’s fourth largest winery.
The company is owned by Fred T. Franzia, Joseph S. Franzia and John
Franzia Jr.
Fred Franzia also serves on the university’s Viticulture and Enology
Industry Advisory Board, composed of industry leaders.
“We appreciate the generosity of Fred Franzia and the Bronco Wine
Company for establishing this position at Fresno State,” Wample said.
“We look forward to the many contributions that Dr. Kurtural will make
to our program and to the grape and wine industry in the Valley.”
At Kentucky, Kurtural was an adjunct assistant professor-viticulture
specialist. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in field crops
and business management in 1997, a Master of Science in pomology (2000)
and a doctorate in plant physiology with a specialization in viticulture
and minor in statistics (2005), all from Southern Illinois University.
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