As the group hammered together the 2005 program, Program Chairman Paul Ginsburg said it became evident, more than ever, the focus needed to be on how global trends continue to shape the industry.

"After dealing with oversupply issues and depressed prices, we see more optimism in this year's event. The apparent upturn for the wine and grape industry makes it more exciting to focus on the big picture issues and a look at our marketplace in the context of the global industry," said Ginsburg.

As in past years, break-out sessions will be organized into four different categories in addition to the general sessions. The four topic areas are: Grape Growing, Winemaking, Business & Finance, and Marketing & Public Relations.

While at this point much of the program and speakers is tentative, some of the topics that are likely to appear as sessions during the Unified Symposium include: Re-thinking the Wine Business Model, which examines global wine market trends; The Cultural Lens and Branding Trends, which looks at demographic and cultural shifts shaping behaviors and attitudes in the market; and a look at Ethnic Marketing and how to tap into this fast-emerging market. Also included are viticulture and winery sessions presented in Spanish.

The ever popular and informative State of the Industry general session is again planned for Wednesday of the three day event. During the session several industry leaders will present hard numbers, show trends and offer their opinions on what it all means to the wine and grape industry as a whole.

Built with the joint input of growers, vintners and allied industry members, the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium provides wine and grape industry professionals direct access to the latest information they need to remain competitive. Jointly organized by the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) and the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG), the Unified Wine & Grape Symposium represents the collective experience, knowledge and background of the entire industry. The Symposium also hosts the industry's largest trade show of its kind, with over 550 vendors displaying their products and services.

The 2005 Unified Wine and Grape Symposium will be held at the Sacramento Convention Center, January 25-27.

For additional information, please call (800) 550-1496 or 650 416-2486 (USA) or on the Internet go to www.unifiedsymposium.org .