In the News

Washington, D.C., Jul 1, 2011 -

Northern California's status as the country's cultural and economic center of high-value wines is likely in jeopardy by mid-century as global warming cuts into the amount of land suitable for growing premium grapes, a study has found.

A research team led by Stanford University found that top-notch grapes in California's Napa Valley could be cut in half by 2040 if temperatures rise 1 degree Celsius over the next 30 years.

Washington, D.C., May 31, 2011 -

Where politics and wine meet, there are issues of great import, lots of schmoozing and, of course, funny-looking costumes and silly proclamations.

All were present last month at the City Club of Washington when the Brotherhood of the Knights of the Vine of America honored three members of Congress who have been leaders of the Congressional Wine Caucus.

Washington, D.C., Mar 30, 2011 -

Washington, D.C., Mar 22, 2011 -

Rep. Dan Lungren, hoping to get an earful from Calaveras County's wine industry, plans a listening session Wednesday at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys.

The Republican from Gold River recently agreed to share chairmanship of the Congressional Wine Caucus, a bipartisan group that aims to educate and influence legislative colleagues on issues affecting winegrape growers and vintners.

Lungren recognizes the key role the industry plays in the Mother Lode economy.

House Resolution 1161 picks up where last year’s 5034 left off; can shipping opponents attract more votes this time?
 

Washington, D.C., Mar 18, 2011 -

Washington, D.C., Feb 25, 2011 -

Mike Thompson stood next to the makeshift wine bar set up in the corner of the Agriculture Committee Room in the Longworth House Office Building. Thompson, a congressman from Northern California, asked for a quarter glass of Sauvignon Blanc, emphasized the importance of eye contact when saying “cheers,” and took a sip.

Washington, D.C., Feb 4, 2011 -

Overseeing House dining facility procedures aren't the only culinary-related responsibilities Rep. Dan Lungren has gained in the new Congress.

The Gold River Republican was recently named co-chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus, a bipartisan group of lawmakers aiming to "educate and engage colleagues in legislative and regulatory matters pertaining to the wine community."

Washington, D.C., May 17, 2010 -

The National Beer Wholesalers Association has mounted a full-court lobbying offensive to find co-sponsors for legislation that supports state-based alcohol regulation and makes it much tougher to file legal challenges to states’ distribution laws.

Joined by the Wine & Spirit Wholesalers of America, NBWA is leading the charge against the Beer Institute, the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States and the Specialty Wine Retailers Association, all of which oppose the bill.