Tarara To Join Washington State Wine Commission

The Washington State Wine Commission announced Monday that Julie Tarara Ph.D. has been hired as the organization’s new Research Program Manager.  She replaces Melissa Hansen, who is retiring after 10 years at the Commission.

Washington’s V&E research program is funded by all wine grape growers and wineries in the state via the WSWC.  The Commission added the program is industry driven, with research results accessible to all.

In this role, Tarara will work to elevate the strategic importance of V&E research with key stakeholders, including winemakers, growers, researchers, students, media, research grantors, and government bodies. Working closely with the WSWC Research Committee and the Wine Research Advisory Committee, Tarara will play a crucial role in managing the industry’s research grant programs and disseminating outcomes to constituents.

Looking Forward To Building For The Future

“I am extremely excited to join the Wine Commission to advocate for rigorous research that will push the industry forward,” Tarara said. “I appreciate that I have Melissa Hansen’s big shoes to fill, and I look forward to the challenge of adding to the solid foundation that she has built over the past decade. It will be rewarding to rekindle relationships in both the industry and the research community in Washington and nationally that I have built over my career.” 

Tarara was selected by a committee made up of Washington Viticulture and Enology research leaders.

“Julie brings a wealth of experience in research and agricultural projects, along with extensive technical skills,” said Kristina Kelley, Executive Director of the WSWC. “We know Washington’s V&E research program is in good hands moving into the future!”

Tarara Well Connected With The Northwest Wine Industry

Tarara started her career as a research scientist with ARS, studying plant–environment interactions in vineyards.   Over the years, she’s collaborated with federal scientists, faculty from Washington State University and Oregon State University, and industry partners across the west coast.   The Commission added she’s also played key roles in partnerships like the National Grape Research Alliance, and the Northwest Center for Small Fruits Research.

Most recently, she was Senior Viticulturist with Results Partners, providing service to 36 clients across 42 vineyards with 44 grape varieties.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com