Why Wine Institute Opposed American Wine Bill

A California bill that would have required wines labeled “American” and sold, made or marketed in California to contain 100%  United States-grown grapes, is dead for the 2025-26 legislative session. 

The California Association of Winegrape Growers had sought the legislation because large wineries, based in California, were importing bladder of cheap wine from other countries that was blended into U.S.-produced wine and labeled "American" even as California winegrape growers were ripping out vineyards for lack of demand.

Wine Institute opposed the bill on the grounds that it would have produced unintended consequences for consumers and the broader industry without addressing the underlying demand crisis facing California wine.  

Wine Institute President/CEO Steve Gross issued this statement: 

“AB 1585 will not advance during the 2025-26 legislative session. This gives our industry an opportunity to refocus on what will make a difference for the California wine community. 

"We have enormous respect for winegrowers and farming families who supported this bill. Their struggles are real, and their voices matter to us. We look forward to working closely with the California Association of Winegrape Growers on demand-building solutions that can move the needle for every grower, winery and community that California wine touches. 

"We have always been at our best when this industry stands together. That is the spirit we bring to the work ahead.”