The California Department of Food & Agriculture’s Specialty Crop Block Grant Program will receive $450,000 in federal funding over the next three years. This $685,000 research project will develop green chemistry and cleaning processes for California wineries and food processors to significantly reduce salts in the waste stream. For details: ngwi.org.

Daviana Winery releases first wines
Daviana Winery, located in the Coombsville area of Napa Valley, producing 500 cases specializing in Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Sauvignon blends, released its inaugural wines this fall. The winery is owned and operated by Tim and Debbie Darrin. Visit: davianawinery.com.

Table grape group hires research head
Franka Gabler, who has worked at the Department of Agriculture/Agricultural Research Service in Parlier, Calif., since 1997, has been hired to be the viticulture research director for the California Table Grape Commission in Fresno.

Bonterra adds organically grown Pinot
Bonterra of Mendocino County, the number one producer of California wine made from organically grown grapes, added a $19.99 Pinot Noir to its collection this fall.

Vintner Huneeus honored by Chile
Agustin Huneeus, owner of the Quintessa estate in Napa Valley, vineyards in Chile and other wine businesses, received highest civilian honors from Chilean President Sebastian Pinera in a ceremony in Los Angeles. The Chilean native was recognized for his efforts to promote Chile and its wine industry internationally.