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SACRAMENTO, CA – May 27, 2026 – Late yesterday, the California State Assembly approved AB 1585 (Connolly & 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 percent of foreign-grown grapes while still carrying the American appellation designation.
The California State Assembly embraced AB 1585 for exactly what it is: a common-sense truth-in-labeling requirement that strengthens consumer trust. Supporters rejected opposition claims that the bill would limit wine blending, emphasizing that transparency in labeling is what protects the long-term value of American wine.
"A 67-0 vote sends an unmistakable message: California stands behind its growers, wineries, and farmworkers, and behind honest wine labeling," said Natalie Collins, CAWG President. "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.”
CAWG and FWC thank Assemblymembers Damon Connolly and Rhodesia Ransom for authoring this legislation and leading the efforts in the Assembly, as well as the 18 regional wine and grape associations, 14 co-author members of the California Legislature, and more than 400 industry members who submitted letters of support.
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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