Senator Cabaldon to lead Select Committee on California's Wine Industry

Sacramento (April 7, 2025) Sen. Christopher Cabaldon, whose District 3 includes the Napa Valley and other major winegrowing regions, has been named chair of the Senate’s Select Committee on California’s Wine Industry.

Cabaldon represents more winegrowing regions than any other state lawmaker. They include Napa Valley, Carneros, Oakville, Rutherford and Sonoma County along with Clarksburg, Suisun Valley, Capay, Berryessa and Contra Costa.

In 2024, Cabaldon prepared to represent the region by studying for and passing two proctored exams administered by the Wine & Spirit Education Trust in London on the eight main grape varieties, the environmental and cultivation factors that affect wines, and how to taste and describe different vintages.

“Viticulture, winemaking, and wine tourism drive California’s economic success and make our state a destination for millions of visitors,” Cabaldon said. “The goal of our select committee is to make sure all of those who love wine, work in the wine industry or who are otherwise affected by it have a voice here in the Senate.”

The Select Committee previously was led by Cabaldon’s predecessor, Sen. Bill Dodd. Having a select committee devoted to the wine industry will allow lawmakers to delve deeply into climate-related issues such as the growing risk of wildfires, workforce challenges, decreasing demand and competition from other countries – including any retaliatory tariffs enacted on California wine.