06/23/2026
AB 1585 was a simple, commonsense truth-in-labeling bill that would have ensured that wine labeled as “American” is made entirely from American-grown grapes, rather than allowing imported bulk wine to be marketed as American. I am disappointed that the global beverage companies opposed this effort despite it having no impact on their ability to continue importing and selling wine. This is a disservice to California’s hardworking growers, wineries, and consumers, particularly as our state produces more than 80% of the nation’s wine. I am committed to continuing this fight next year and standing up for transparency, consumers, and California’s wine industry.
California lawmakers are set to consider new legislation that would close a loophole that for decades has allowed winemakers to label wines as “American” even when they are made partly from imported bulk wine.
Under current federal law, wines can be labeled American when at least 75% of the liquid came from U.S.-grown grapes or agricultural products. Assembly Bill 1585 would change that threshold to 100% for wines sold in California.
The bill’s authors and sponsors said their intent is to promote trust among consumers by improving the accuracy and transparency of wine labels. “We want to make sure that there is truth in advertising when it comes to wine coming from the U.S.,” said Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, D-Tracy, who co-authored the bill. “This is another way of us ensuring that consumers know what they’re purchasing.”
Read more in Ag Alert: bit.ly/3QsEUx8
