Kent State Ashtabula Wine Degrees

05/15/2026

Congratulations to all of the 2026 Director’s Choice Award winners! What an incredible showcase of the outstanding wines being produced right here in Ohio!

A special shoutout to the four Grand River Valley wineries recognized among this distinguished group. And an even bigger congratulations to our own faculty member, Lauren Fiala, the winemaker at Baci Winery on this well-deserved recognition! We’re proud to see your talent and dedication helping elevate Ohio’s wine industry.

We’re also especially proud that the Vineyard Manager at Baci, Candace DiGirolamo, is a graduate of our program — another example of the impact our alumni continue to make across Ohio’s growing wine and grape industry!

05/14/2026

We join our local community and Ohio’s wine industry in mourning the loss of Bill Holden of Buccia Vineyard in Conneaut. Bill was not only a talented winemaker, but also a truly wonderful person.

He generously opened his cellar doors and his vineyard to our students, mentoring them and providing hands-on opportunities to learn the art and science of grape growing and winemaking. He was deeply passionate about the future of Ohio’s wine region and the potential of the Conneaut Creek AVA.

Bill also cared deeply about his community. He worked alongside local businesses to help make our area stronger and better, and he was a dedicated supporter of local musicians and the arts.

He will be greatly missed, and our thoughts are with his family, friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. ✌️❤️🥂

It is with great sorrow that we share the passing of our beloved owner, Bill Holden. We have been so grateful at the outpouring of love and support as we grieve. Bill was always the life of the party! Join us for fellowship as we honor Bill’s life this Saturday starting at 2pm at the winery.
The tasting room will be closed Friday and Sunday this week.
As you all know, everything Bill touched grew and his family and friends plans to carry on his legacy through the Buccia winery. May Peace love and wine live on!
See obituary at Ducro Funeral Home for further details.

04/19/2026

Another fantastic alum from our program doing great things in the Ohio Wine industry! Congratulations Jim!

https://www.facebook.com/share/1DttHjXH5S/

Partners open new wine-making and tasting venue in Brunswick

04/10/2026

Great information in today's WineAmerica email highlighting the value of participating in wine competitions. We decided not to host the Ohio Wine Competition this year, but it is still taking place! Reach out to OGIC if you need more information! The Ohio Wine Competition has more than doubled in size in the last 10 years. There are amazing wines being produced here!

04/06/2026

Great story about an amazing Kent Ashtabula alum! So happy to know Michael and to have been able to work with him on some projects!

When Michael Bugary '23 looks at his first published book, "The Disease of Me," he still feels a little surprised. “I was reading the final edit and

03/04/2026

A great article from the NYWGF about some amazing female winemakers in New York!! Women are equally important to our Ohio industry! Shout out your favorite Ohio female winemakers below!

02/27/2026

Thinking about starting a vineyard or winery? Or already own one and want to brush up on some skills? Check out these two free opportunities sponsored by NEO Fund. Classes are held right here at Kent State University at Ashtabula.

02/17/2026

Had a fantastic time at this year's Ohio Grape and Wine Conference! Saw many of our faculty, students and alumni, and met many potential new students!

02/16/2026

Monday at the Ohio Grape and Wine Conference. Introducing our new advisor, Dylaney, to members of the wine industry!

02/16/2026

Sunday evening at the Ohio Grape and Wine Conference! Stop by our booth right outside the did of the general sessions!