The Wine Institute, the leading trade association representing California’s wine industry, announced today that its longtime president and CEO, Robert P. “Bobby” Koch, will retire at the end of 2025. Koch has served as CEO for 22 years and has been with the organization for a total of 33 years. The announcement marks a significant transition for the group, which advocates for more than 1,000 wineries and affiliated businesses across California.
Koch joined the Wine Institute in 1992 and was appointed CEO in 2003. During his tenure, he played a central role in shaping public policy and expanding market access for California wines both domestically and internationally. Under his leadership, the organization doubled its membership and built a staff focused on protecting and promoting the interests of wine producers throughout the state.
Industry leaders have credited Koch with uniting small and large wineries during key policy debates. He is recognized for his efforts to expand direct-to-consumer shipping to 48 states and Washington, D.C., defeat legislation that would have limited consumer choice, and secure federal excise tax reductions through the Craft Beverage Modernization Act. Since 2018, these tax changes have allowed California wineries to reinvest more than $600 million into their businesses.
Koch also led initiatives to promote sustainable winegrowing practices. The Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing program now covers 90% of California wine production and nearly half of the state’s winegrape acreage. The Wine Institute’s marketing programs have increased U.S. wine exports to over 40 countries during his time as CEO.
In a statement released by the Wine Institute, Koch expressed gratitude for his colleagues and industry partners, noting that he never imagined building such a long career with some of the world’s most successful wineries. He praised the commitment of board members and staff, emphasizing their role in advancing the industry’s interests.
Industry figures responded to the news by highlighting Koch’s impact on California wine. Robin Baggett, chairman of the Wine Institute and managing partner of Alpha Omega Winery, said Koch’s work has had an immeasurable effect on small- and medium-sized wineries. Matt Gallo, vice president and general manager of Gallo Vineyards, Inc., noted that Koch has worked with three generations of his family. Jerry Lohr, founder of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines, recalled leading the search that brought Koch to the organization in 1992 and described his dedication as remarkable.
The announcement comes at a time when California’s wine distribution landscape is shifting. In June, Republic National Distributing Co., one of the largest distributors in the country, announced it would cease operations in California by early September.
The Wine Institute has begun a nationwide search for Koch’s successor with executive search firm Russell Reynolds Associates overseeing the process. Koch will remain in his role until a new president and CEO is appointed.
Founded in 1934 after Prohibition ended, the Wine Institute serves as an advocacy group for California wineries at state, federal, and international levels. The organization works to shape policies that support responsible production, consumption, and enjoyment of wine while promoting sustainability and market growth.
As it prepares for new leadership, the Wine Institute plans to launch new communications initiatives aimed at highlighting positive aspects of wine to consumers and policymakers alike. The group remains focused on supporting its members through ongoing changes in regulation, distribution, and global competition.
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