Overview of the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium

The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium, held annually in Sacramento, California, is recognized as North America’s largest wine and grape industry trade show and conference. It serves as a vital platform for vintners, grape growers, equipment manufacturers, service providers, and academics from across the globe to gather, exchange knowledge, explore innovations, and cultivate business opportunities.

Founded as a collaboration between the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) and the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG), this prestigious event has become the ultimate destination for those involved in the winemaking and grape-growing industries.

Venue and Location Details

The Unified Wine & Grape Symposium takes place at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center, centrally located in downtown Sacramento, California. This modern and spacious facility is equipped to host large-scale exhibitions and multiple sessions simultaneously, making it an ideal setting for such a dynamic and multifaceted industry event.

Venue Address:

SAFE Credit Union Convention Center
1401 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, United States

Event Dates and Timings

The next edition of the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium will be held over three days:

Dates: January 28 – 30, 2025
Exhibition Hours:

• January 28: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
• January 29: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• January 30: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM

These dates are subject to minor changes, so prospective attendees should check for official updates prior to making travel arrangements.

Visitor Profile and Attendance

Each year, the symposium draws more than 14,000 attendees from across the United States and international markets. The audience includes:

• Vineyard owners and grape growers
• Winery proprietors and winemakers
• Agricultural technology professionals
• Equipment manufacturers
• Marketing and sales executives
• Academic researchers and students
• Policy-makers and trade analysts

The event’s diverse and professional visitor base provides unmatched networking potential for industry players seeking partnerships or market insights.

Exhibition Categories and Product Range

A cornerstone of the event is its expansive trade show floor, featuring over 750 exhibitors. The exhibition showcases a comprehensive array of products and services related to the wine and grape industry, including:

• Vineyard and winery equipment
• Irrigation systems and trellising solutions
• Fermentation tanks and bottling machinery
• Labels, corks, and closures
• Wine production software and automation tools
• Packaging innovations
• Laboratory testing services
• Agri-tech and sustainability tools
• Crop protection products
• Consulting and financial services

This is an essential opportunity for attendees to witness the latest technologies, compare products, and engage in live demonstrations.

Educational Sessions and Speaker Line-up

One of the main attractions of the symposium is its carefully curated lineup of seminars, panel discussions, and keynote speeches. These sessions delve into:

• Viticulture and enology research
• Wine marketing strategies
• Regulatory developments
• Sustainability practices
• Climate change and adaptation
• Labor and mechanization
• Export market trends

Speakers are drawn from top universities, government bodies, leading wineries, and consulting firms, ensuring high-quality content and actionable insights.

Cost and Registration

The cost to attend varies based on registration type:

• Full Conference Pass (includes seminars + exhibition): Typically ranges between $400 – $600 for early registrants.
• Exhibition Only Pass: Around $100 – $200 depending on the day and registration phase.
• Student and Group Discounts: Available with proper credentials.

Early bird pricing is offered for those registering in advance. Walk-in registrations are allowed but are subject to higher rates and limited access to sessions.

Nearby Hotels and Accommodation Options

Sacramento offers a wide range of hotels and lodging options near the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. Some top-rated choices within walking distance include:

• Hyatt Regency Sacramento – Directly across from the venue with luxury amenities and meeting facilities.
• Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel – Connected via a short walk; ideal for business travelers.
• Residence Inn Sacramento Downtown – Offers extended stays and business-friendly services.
• The Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection – A historic boutique hotel just a few blocks away.

These hotels are typically in high demand during the symposium, so early reservations are strongly recommended.

Benefits of Attending the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium

Participating in the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium delivers numerous benefits, such as:

• Networking Opportunities: Meet with decision-makers, researchers, and innovators across all facets of the wine and grape industry.
• Business Growth: Discover new suppliers, tools, and strategies to improve vineyard or winery operations.
• Professional Development: Enhance your understanding of market trends, regulatory shifts, and production best practices.
• Market Exposure: For exhibitors, the show provides maximum visibility to a global audience of targeted buyers.
• Innovation Access: Stay ahead of competitors by exploring new technologies and services firsthand.

Perks and Additional Highlights

• Wine Tastings & Receptions: Social events allow attendees to sample wines and continue networking in a relaxed setting.
• Innovation Showcase: A special section of the exhibit floor dedicated to startups and groundbreaking tech.
• Student Program: Educational tracks tailored for students entering the industry.
• Media Coverage: Strong presence of trade media and journals ensures broader exposure.

Travel and Local Attractions

Sacramento is not only California’s state capital but also a hub of rich culture and scenic beauty. After the show, visitors can explore:

• Old Sacramento Waterfront – Historic district with cobblestone streets, museums, and river views.
• California State Capitol Museum – A must-visit for history enthusiasts.
• Local Wine Country – Regions such as Lodi and Clarksburg offer exceptional day-trip opportunities for wine lovers.
• Farm-to-Fork Dining Scene – Sacramento is known for its vibrant culinary offerings featuring fresh, local ingredients.

How to Plan Your Visit

Visitors are encouraged to plan their trip early to secure accommodations and registration at the best rates. Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is located just 20 minutes from downtown, offering convenient access for domestic and international attendees.