Sonoma State University
Scene of a vineyard

Grape Expectations Research Lab (GERL)

WHO ARE WE?

We are undergraduate and graduate students who are interested in learning and contributing wine industry through research.

WHAT RESEARCH?

Everything from the dirt to the drink! Examples of current research topics:

  • A Potential Demographic Change for the Wine Market: U.S. Hispanic Consumers
  • Are Natural Corks Going to Remain the Best Wine Closure Option?
  • Can Diversity Backfire? Impact of Diversity on Consumers’ Perception of Brand Equity and Quality of Wine
  • The Power of Word-of-Mouth: How Competing Wineries are Referring Visitors to Each Other
  • Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies on the California Wine Industry 
  • Barriers and Drivers of Sustainability: A Cross-Scale Analysis in the Wine Industry 
  • Trust in the Age of AI: Wine Recommendations through Humanoid and Non-Humanoid Sommeliers 
RESEARCH TOPICS
  • Impact of U.S Immigration Policies on the California Wine Industry
  • Barriers and Drivers of Sustainability: A Cross-Scale Analysis in the Wine Industry
  • Trust in the Age of AI: Wine Recommendations through Humanoid and Non-Humanoid Sommeliers
WHY?
  • Build a Network
  • Learn How to Conduct Research
  • Add to your Resume
  • Scholarship Opportunities
  • Leadership Opportunities
  • Connect with the Wine Industry
  • Conference & Publication Experience
  • Share your passion for Wine
  • It’s fun!
READY TO JOIN?

Email faculty mentor Dr. InHaeng Jung: inhaeng.jung@sonoma.edu

MEETINGS

Weekly meetings are held at the Wine Spectator Learning Center.

NOTE TO INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS AND ORGANIZATIONS

We invite industry experts and professionals to join us at the Grape Expectations Research Lab (GERL) as we delve into diverse areas of wine research. Your expertise can greatly contribute to our ongoing projects and help bridge the gap between academic research and industry needs. For collaboration opportunities or to discuss potential partnerships, please contact Dr. Jung via email.