Overview of the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium
The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium is North America’s premier wine and grape industry event, held annually in Sacramento, California. It is a collaborative effort organized by the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) and the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG). The symposium brings together thousands of industry professionals, from vineyard managers and wine producers to equipment suppliers and researchers, under one roof to share ideas, explore innovations, and shape the future of viticulture and enology.
The 2025 edition of the symposium is expected to attract a wide array of attendees, reinforcing its reputation as the go-to event for the latest industry trends, technologies, and business strategies.
Venue, Date & Time Details
The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium 2025 will take place at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, located in downtown Sacramento, California.
- Venue: SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
- Address: 1401 K St, Sacramento, CA 95814, USA
- Dates: January 28–30, 2025
- Timings: Typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM across all event days
The newly renovated SAFE Credit Union Convention Center offers state-of-the-art exhibition halls, meeting rooms, and auditorium facilities, making it the perfect venue to host such a large-scale international event.
Product Categories and Exhibitor Highlights
The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium showcases a comprehensive range of products and services relevant to the wine and grape industry. Attendees can expect to engage with exhibitors from across the supply chain.
Main Product Categories Include:
- Vineyard equipment & irrigation systems
- Grapevine nursery stock and vineyard development tools
- Fermentation tanks and cellar equipment
- Bottling and packaging technologies
- Wine storage and transportation
- Laboratory analysis and quality testing
- Pest control, fertilizers, and soil management solutions
- Marketing, business services, and software solutions
In 2024, over 750 exhibitors participated, and a similar or even higher number is expected in 2025, presenting a diverse array of offerings to meet the evolving needs of growers and winemakers.
Visitor Profile and Attendance Expectations
The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium draws more than 14,000 visitors annually from over 30 countries. This includes:
- Vineyard owners and managers
- Winery executives and winemakers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Researchers and scientists
- Sales and marketing professionals
- Government and trade organization representatives
This global reach not only enhances the networking potential of the symposium but also fosters international collaboration in the areas of wine production, research, and sustainability.
Why Attend the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium?
1. Networking Opportunities:
Attendees get direct access to top professionals and decision-makers from across the wine and grape industry. Whether you’re a startup or a seasoned professional, the symposium offers unmatched networking potential.
2. Cutting-Edge Education Sessions:
A key highlight is the educational conference, featuring panel discussions, keynote addresses, and technical workshops led by industry leaders and academic experts. Topics range from sustainability and climate change adaptation to market trends and innovative winemaking techniques.
3. Business Expansion and Partnerships:
The trade show floor presents opportunities for buyers to discover the latest products and services and for vendors to establish new business relationships.
4. Industry Insights and Innovation:
Get hands-on exposure to new technologies and tools that can improve vineyard productivity, enhance wine quality, and reduce production costs.
5. Global Perspective:
With international exhibitors and delegates, the symposium provides a global lens on challenges and opportunities, helping attendees gain a broader understanding of the wine market worldwide.
Registration and Cost
Pricing details vary based on attendee type and access levels:
- Full Conference Registration: Includes access to all sessions, trade show floor, and networking events. Early-bird prices start at approximately $425–$495.
- Trade Show Only Pass: Allows access to the exhibition floor without conference sessions, starting from $50–$75.
- Group Discounts: Available for teams or associations attending with 10 or more members.
- Student Pricing: Discounted passes are available with valid ID.
It is recommended to register in advance to secure early-bird discounts and avoid on-site queues.
Nearby Hotels and Accommodation
Being located in downtown Sacramento, the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center is surrounded by numerous hotels that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some popular options include:
- Hyatt Regency Sacramento – Adjacent to the venue, offering premium stays with conference-ready amenities
- Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel – A short walk from the event center, well-known for hosting business travelers
- Kimpton Sawyer Hotel – A boutique option near Downtown Commons with upscale rooms
- Holiday Inn Sacramento Downtown – Arena – Budget-friendly and within easy commuting distance
- Residence Inn Sacramento Downtown – Ideal for long-stay attendees with kitchen-equipped suites
It’s advisable to book accommodations early as nearby hotels tend to fill up fast during the event period.
Dining and Local Attractions
Downtown Sacramento offers a vibrant dining scene for event participants to enjoy after the day’s sessions. Local favorites like The Firehouse Restaurant, Ella Dining Room & Bar, and Tower Café are popular among visitors.
If you have some extra time, don’t miss visiting:
- California State Capitol Museum – Just blocks from the venue
- Old Sacramento Waterfront – Historical riverside district for shopping and sightseeing
- Crocker Art Museum – One of the oldest art museums in the West
Perks of Participation
- Early access to emerging technologies
- Direct interaction with industry pioneers and innovators
- Access to premium educational content
- Exclusive wine tastings and networking events
- Opportunities for media exposure and collaborations
COVID-19 Safety and Health Guidelines
The organizers prioritize attendee safety and will follow CDC and local government guidelines. Enhanced sanitization, contactless check-in, and optional mask-wearing may be part of the 2025 safety protocol depending on the situation.
To register, view exhibitor listings, and explore travel resources, please visit the official Unified Wine & Grape Symposium website: