St. Helena native Patty Saldivar has been confirmed as president of the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) for the 2010-2011 term. She takes over the reins from Christian Butzke, a Purdue University enology professor, and will preside over the ASEV’s 12-member board. Dr. Sara Spayd of North Carolina State University was confirmed as first vice president, and Leticia Chacon-Rodriguez was elected as second vice president.

Saldivar, a viticultural consultant, brings a wealth of experience to the Board. Her career includes research in clones, rootstocks, grapevine pests and diseases, vine nutrition and soil science. Saldivar’s past experience includes working as a viticulturist, grower relations representative, vineyard manager and director of vineyard operations for various growers and wineries throughout the North Coast and Central California.

“Christian did a phenomenal job this last year. His leadership pushed us to find better approaches and opportunities to serve the ASEV’s broad base of international members,” Saldivar said. “I am honored to lead a board of remarkably talented and dedicated individuals in continuing the Society’s efforts to encourage and disseminate research that fundamentally improves the success of the wine industry.”

Dr. Jim Harbertson, an associate scientist and research/extension enologist at Washington State University at Prosser, was elected secretary-treasurer, while Lise Asimont, a viticulturist from Francis Ford Coppola Presents in Geyserville, California, and Kristen Barnhisel, a winemaker from Handley Cellars in Philo, California, join the Board as new directors.

Other board members continuing their term include: Dr. Linda Bisson of U.C. Davis; John Clark of the Wine Group; Peter Cousins of the U.S. Department of Agriculture; Nichola Hall of Scott Laboratories; and Patty Skinkis of Oregon State.

Formed in 1950, ASEV is a non-profit professional society dedicated to the interests of enologists, viticulturists and others in the fields of wine and grape research and production throughout the world. Membership includes professionals from wineries, vineyards, academic institutions and regional organizations. More information on the ASEV, its programs and National Conference can be found online at www.asev.org.