Growing the Next Generation of California Winemakers
Fresh Eddie Futures is the 501(c)(3) nonprofit wing of Fresh Eddie Productions, awarding scholarships to Viticulture & Enology students at four of California’s leading wine programs.
Not ready to apply yet? Get notified when the next scholarship round opens →
Our Story
Rooted in a Passion for Pinot
Fresh Eddie Futures grew out of Passion 4 Pinot & Chardonnay – The Springs Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Festival, an annual celebration that brings dozens of California’s finest winery owners, winemakers, and wine lovers together in the desert.
Proceeds from the festival’s silent auction fund scholarships for college students majoring in Viticulture and Enology. With the cost of higher education soaring, we’re committed to supporting our future winemakers — and the industry we love.
Our Scholars
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Join us in congratulating this year’s outstanding recipients — the future of California wine.
Gianna Bottarini
Class of 2026
Nathan Cameron
Class of 2026
Jake Dempster
Class of 2026
Jay Denery
Class of 2026
Sophia Ermisch
Class of 2026
2025 Recipients
Luis Gonzales
Class of 2025
Elizabeth Hastert
Class of 2025
Augusta Schulte
Class of 2025
Daniela Lopez-Torres
Class of 2025
The Scholarship
Who Can Apply & How It Works
Scholarships are awarded on merit, based on essays and professor/educator recommendations.
Who Can Apply
- All students majoring in Viticulture & Enology — the scholarship is open to everyone in these programs.
- Enrolled at U.C. Davis, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo, Fresno State University, or Sonoma State University.
- Selected on merit — essays and recommendations from professors or educators.
- Awards are paid directly to your school to support your education.
How It Works
- ApplySubmit your application with a short bio, resume, personal statement, and letters of recommendation.
- InterviewsSelected finalists are invited to a brief second-round conversation, in person or over Zoom.
- Winners AnnouncedRecipients are notified in early spring and celebrated right here on this page.
- Funds AwardedScholarship funds are sent directly to each recipient’s university.
Missed this year’s deadline? Sign up below and we’ll email you when the next round opens.
Get Involved
Raise a Glass to the Future
Every scholarship we award is made possible by people who love wine and believe in the students behind its future.
Attend the Festival
Join us at the annual Passion 4 Pinot and Chardonnay Festival — proceeds from the silent auction fund these scholarships.
Donate an Auction Item
Wineries and businesses can contribute wine, experiences, lodging, experiences, or items to the festival’s annual silent auction.
Give Directly
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, contributions to Fresh Eddie Futures may be tax-deductible. Reach out and we’ll make it easy.
Stay in the Loop
Scholarship Alerts & Supporter Inquiries
Future applicant? We’ll let you know the moment next year’s scholarship round opens. Want to support the mission? Tell us how you’d like to help.
We’ll only use your email for scholarship and festival updates. No spam, ever.