Bronco Wine viticulture chair named at Fresno State

•  Kaan Kurtural recruited from University of Kentucky

•  Will research wine-grape production and vineyard management

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.

Mr. Kurtural will conduct research focusing on wine-grape production and vineyard management in the San Joaquin Valley, says Robert Wample, director of the Department of Viticulture and Enology and Viticulture and Enology Research Center.

He 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.

Mr. 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 Franzia, Joseph Franzia and John Franzia Jr. Fred Franzia also serves on the university’s Viticulture and Enology Industry Advisory Board, composed of industry leaders.

Mr. Kurtural was awarded his doctorate in plant physiology with a specialization in viticulture and minor in statistics from Southern Illinois University.