AB 1585 would require any wine labeled “American” be made from 100% American-grown wine grapes. This standard aligns the national designation with the same requirement California applies to wines labeled “California.”

“Today’s vote is an important first step toward ensuring that when a bottle says ‘American,’ it means American,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “California’s wine community has invested significantly in building the American wine brand, and we are grateful the committee recognized what is at stake, for growers, wineries, communities, and the consumers who trust what’s on the label. This effort has been strengthened by a clear and unified voice across the industry. We thank the committee for its leadership and look forward to advancing this bill.”

“Family Winemakers of California is proud to see this legislation move forward,” said FWC Board President GinaLisa Tamayo. “Truth in labeling isn’t just good policy — it’s the foundation of what our members have built their reputations on. When a bottle says ‘American,’ consumers deserve to know it means exactly that. Today’s vote is an important first step, and we’ll be with this bill every step of the way.”

The recent hearing marks the beginning of a legislative process that will continue through August. AB 1585 must clear several additional steps, including the Assembly Appropriations Committee, where the bill heads next, before the legislature’s August 31 deadline to act on 2026 session legislation.

— Story contributed by the California Association of Winegrape Growers and Family Winemakers of California