![Dr. Block (third from left) with the team from Quinta da Chocapatha, north of Lisbon team at portuguese winery](/sites/g/files/dgvnsk1131/files/styles/sf_landscape_16x9/public/images/article/Quinta_da_Chocapatha_NLisbon.jpg?h=45b07cc7&itok=iTDGp3x4)
Department Chair Dr. David Block returned in January from a three-month sabbatical trip to Europe and South Africa. Along the way, he had the opportunity to connect with wonderful hosts! Some were old friends, some were alumni, and some were new friends that he made along his trip through Portugal, Spain, Italy, France, Germany, and South Africa.
Dr. Block says, "Thanks to all. It was great to make new connections to wineries and research centers around the globe and to strengthen our connections."
Here are just a few photos of those who made him feel at home half way around the world!
![Dr. Block wiht Beatriz Alvarez Rieiro at Symington in Portugal](/sites/g/files/dgvnsk1131/files/inline-images/Beatriz_Alvarez_Rieiro_Symington.jpg)
![with diana snowden](/sites/g/files/dgvnsk1131/files/inline-images/diana_snowden.jpg)
![paola domizio](/sites/g/files/dgvnsk1131/files/inline-images/Paola%20Domizio.jpg)