National Wine and Grape Industry Centre
About NWGIC
Since 1997 the NWGIC alliance of Charles Sturt University (CSU) Industry and Investment NSW (I&I NSW) and the NSW Wine Industry Association (NSW WIA) has brought together the:
- Viticultural research extension and vocational training expertise and resources of I&I NSW
- Wine-related research expertise and resources of CSU
- Wine sector knowledge and experience of the NSW WIA
to focus the Research Development and Extension (R.D. & E.) activities of the NWGIC on delivery of vinicultural outcomes of national significance. The NWGIC's strong focus on viniculture- the business of growing grapes and making wine - reflects the natural interdependence of viticulture and oenology.
By 2009 the NWGIC had established itself as a leading provider of R.D. & E. for the Australian wine sector under the National R.D. & E. Framework.
The NWGIC conducts research in the field of Oenology and Viticulture encompassing:
- Grapevine physiology and biotic ecology; including pest and disease pathology
- Wine chemistry and fermentation science
- Wine consumer psychology and preference
- Sustainable vinicultural systems
Postgraduate Researchers
Postgraduate research students enrolled in CSU conduct their research in the state-of-the-art facilities of the NWGIC.
Other Features of the NWGIC
- Membership of all of Charles Sturt University's specialist viticultural and wine course academic staff who are ideally placed to present advanced knowledge generated from research conducted within the Centre to current and future professionals within the wine sector.
- Membership of I&I NSW's specialist Extension team with expertise in the development and presentation of topical information packages in a broad range of media to broadly promote innovation by professional grape and wine producers.
- Facilities which include an experimental winery state-of-the art laboratories including a fully equipped sensory laboratory glasshouses and controlled environment plant growth rooms.
- Affiliation with CSU's award-winning commercial winery