Sen. Dodd: September is California Wine Month

SACRAMENTO – Recognizing the economic and cultural significance of the California wine industry, which plays an important role in the Golden State’s iconic lifestyle and leads the world in quality and environmental sustainability, Sen. Bill Dodd, D-Napa, designates September as California Wine Month.

“California is renowned for producing the world’s best wines, enhancing the state’s bounty of fresh produce and inventive cuisine,” Sen. Dodd said. “Not surprisingly, our innovative wine community pairs well with another California tradition -- environmental stewardship and sustainability. With its commitment to quality and respect for the land, California wine is securing its future for years to come.”

California wine has been a rich part of the state’s identity for more than 250 years. The statewide industry now includes 6,200 bonded wineries and 5,900 winegrape growers, with winegrapes grown on 610,000 acres across 49 of the state’s 58 counties. More than 100 wine varieties can be found across California, thanks to the state’s diverse terroir, which accommodates nearly every kind of grape. The state boasts 152 American Viticultural Areas, showcasing its diverse terroir.

Wineries are mainly family-owned businesses, many of which are proudly multigenerational and pass on time-honored traditions, producing 81 percent of America’s wine. California wine makes significant financial contributions to local communities by supporting quality jobs and bolstering tourism. At the same time, the industry is a global leader in sustainability with vintners who pride themselves on being stewards of the land. About 90% of California wine is made in more than 215 certified sustainable wineries. More than one-half of the state’s vineyard acreage is certified sustainable.

In acknowledgment of the state’s wine community, Sen. Dodd authored Senate Concurrent Resolution 160, which designates September as California Wine Month. The resolution has been approved by a unanimous vote of the Legislature and is supported by Wine Institute.

“The dedication of California’s wine community has created one of the most sustainable and valuable agricultural products in the country, contributing to over 1.1 million U.S. jobs and fostering $170 billion in annual economic activity,” said Robert P. Koch, president and CEO of Wine Institute. “The economic benefits are tremendous and just as important, the simple connections made over a shared bottle of California wine are timeless. We encourage friends and family to gather and enjoy some wine together.”

Sen. Dodd is co-chair of the Senate Select Committee on California’s Wine Industry.

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Senator Bill Dodd represents the 3rd Senate District, which includes all or portions of Napa, Yolo, Sonoma, Solano, Sacramento and Contra Costa counties. More information on Senator Bill Dodd can be found at www.senate.ca.gov/dodd.