The California State Assembly approved AB 1585 (Connolly and Ransom), legislation that would require wine labeled “American” and sold or bottled in California to be made entirely from American-grown grapes. The bill passed with bipartisan support on a 67-0 vote and now advances to the California State Senate.
Sponsored by the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) and Family Winemakers of California (FWC), AB 1585 would establish a truth-in-labeling standard to improve transparency for consumers and reinforce the integrity of American wine labeling. Under current labeling regulations, wine labeled “American” may contain up to 25% of foreign-grown grapes while still carrying the American appellation designation.
“A 67-0 vote sends an unmistakable message: California stands behind its growers, wineries, and farmworkers, and behind honest wine labeling,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “AB 1585 is common sense – consumers choosing ‘American’ wine deserve to get American grapes. We’re grateful for the Assembly’s unanimous support and look forward to the Senate taking up this important consumer protection.”
“Family Winemakers of California is proud to stand alongside CAWG and the more than 400 industry members who have championed this legislation,” said GinaLisa Tamayo, Board President of Family Winemakers of California. “We are encouraged by the Assembly’s strong support and eager to carry this momentum into the Senate.”
The progress made this week is another step in a legislative process that will continue through August. AB 1585 will next be considered by the California State Senate Governmental Organization Committee in June.
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