Who’s Afraid of American Wine?

If “American” Doesn’t Mean American Grapes, What Does It Mean?

April 3, 2026 — The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) has published a new article, “Who’s Afraid of 100% American Wine?”, examining the gap between consumer expectations and current federal labeling standards for American wine.

Under existing rules, wines labeled “American” may contain up to 25% foreign-origin wine with no disclosure required. The piece examines what that means for domestic growers, consumer trust, and the integrity of a label built over generations by American farmers, farmworkers, and winemakers.

CAWG and Family Winemakers of California are co-sponsoring AB 1585 – Truth in Labeling of American Wine (Connolly and Ransom), with support from sixteen regional winegrape and wine associations across the state. The bill goes to its first committee before the California Legislature this month.

The article also addresses opposition arguments and makes the case for why now is the right moment to act.

About the California Association of Winegrape Growers
CAWG is a statewide nonprofit trade association advocating for California’s winegrape growers to ensure the sustainability of the winegrape industry. CAWG promotes the industry’s long-term success by advancing the adoption of sound public policies and fostering awareness and understanding of winegrape growers’ contributions to the economy, environment, and California communities. Learn more at cawg.org.