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Faces& Forums Nearly 200 Attend NEWSMAKERS Biodynamic Event Experts and practitioners describe their experiences with farming method R utherford, Calif.—A short course about Biodynamic winegrowing Dec. 2 drew a capacity crowd of 190 to Napa Valley's Rutherford Grange Hall. Hosted by Demeter USA, the nonprofit certi- fication organization for Biodynamic farming based in Philomath, Ore., and the University of California Cooperative Extension, at- tendees included current and potential practitioners of Biodynamic viticulture and winemaking, viticulture and wine industry consultants, marketers, sommeliers, retailers and wine business students, primarily from Northern California, but also from Oregon, British Columbia and Minnesota. Demeter marketing director Elizabeth Candelario said the one-day session was not designed as a comprehensive course in Biodynamic management, but more to build awareness. "Our intention is that you have a more informed view of what Biodynamic farming is, and why some people think it helps them," she said. Candelario previous- ly worked at Quivira Vineyards in Sonoma County, which converted its vineyards to Biodynamic management and became Demeter-certified in 2007. Candelario said that worldwide there are now 360 certified vineyards and/or wineries, with a total 20,000 certified vineyard acres. The U.S. has the second-highest number of certified operations with 70; France is No. 1. —Jon Tourney 30 Wines & Vines JAnUARY 2011 Sommelier Chris Sawyer poses with Katrina Fetzer of Ceago Vinegarden in Lake County. Elizabeth Candelario and Jim Fullmer of Deme- ter USA hosted the Biodynamic short course. Paul Dolan of Mendocino Wine Co. greets winery consultant Barney Barnett. Winemaker Bob Blue of Bonterra Vineyards talks with viticulture advisor Glenn McGourty. Barbara Steele is the co-founder of Cowhorn Vineyard & Garden in Jacksonville, Ore. Daniel Robledo represents Crop Protection Services in Sonoma County. JON TOURNEY