CAVE welcomes the world's finest wine economists to Perth

2 days ago
2 min read

The University of Western Australia's Centre for Agricultural and Viticultural Economics (CAVE) was delighted to host the 18th Annual Conference of the American Association of Wine Economists (AAWE) in Perth from 8–13 July 2026, welcoming leading researchers, industry experts and students from around the world to Western Australia.

The AAWE conference showcased the latest research exploring the economics of wine, food, wine tourism, and related industries. Across three days of presentations, delegates shared new insights into consumer behaviour, wine markets, sustainability, climate change, production, tourism, health, marketing, international trade.

Attendees of the AAWE's 18th annual conference in Perth, 2026.

Professor Jonas Müller (Technical University of Applied Sciences, Würzburg-Schweinfurt)

Several presentations also focused on the application of advanced data analytics and econometrics to the wine sector. Interdisciplinary research spanning economics, business, psychology, statistics, viticulture and oenology was also on display (see Program).

Beyond the formal program, the conference provided a valuable opportunity for researchers to build international collaborations, exchange ideas, and strengthen connections between academia and industry. Bringing the conference to Perth also showcased Western Australia's world-class wine regions and research capability to an international audience.

Six wineries from the Great Southern wine region present a wine tasting showcase.

Delegates experienced some of Western Australia's renowned wine regions through technical field trips to Swan Valley and Margaret River, where they explored the region's unique viticulture, met with local producers and experienced the diversity of Western Australia's premium wine industry firsthand.

These visits complemented the conference program by connecting research with practice and highlighting the importance of place in shaping wine production and consumer experiences.

A/Prof James Fogarty (UWA) and Yasmeen Jansen, MW (Margaret River Master Class)

Hosting the AAWE conference reflects CAVE's commitment to advancing research that supports a sustainable, innovative, and globally competitive wine sector.

The event also reinforced the Centre's growing international reputation in agricultural and viticultural economics, while providing opportunities for our researchers and students to engage with many of the world's leading wine economists.

A/Prof. Nadia Streletskaya (UWA) and Dr Karl Storchmann (AAWE).

We thank the American Association of Wine Economists, our keynote speakers, presenters, sponsors, delegates, volunteers and organising committee for making the conference such a success.

We were proud to welcome the international wine economics community to Perth and look forward to continuing the collaborations and conversations sparked throughout the week.