Family Winemakers of California An Association of California Table Wine Producers
Governor signs private brand promotion bill On the final day he could act the Governor signed AB 2293 (de Leon), a Family Winemakers-supported bill to allow wineries and distilled spirits manufacturers to hold private, invitation-only brand promotion events. This culminates an intense effort to create a new marketing channel that was strenuously opposed by beer wholesalers, beer manufacturers and small brewers. Starting January 1, 2009, wineries will be able to hold up to 12 events annually for invitation-only audiences of between 100 and 400 in non-retail facilities. Wineries will also be able to hold up to 24 events annually for audiences up to 100. Aside from new brand launches or new varietal launches, these events can be used for wine clubs. Use of a caterer is required.
The Governor also vetoed AB 2386 (Nunez), which would have created a new election method for farm worker unionization that eliminated the secret ballot. The bill, sponsored by the UFW, was opposed by the Family Winemakers and a broad coalition of agricultural groups. In his veto message, the Governor did call for more education of the agricultural community to improve farm worker conditions.
Schwarzenegger also signed SB 634 (Wiggins) and AB 3071 (GO Committee). SB 634 defines and sets standards for California-produced extra virgin olive oil. AB 3071 clarifies existing alcohol statutes so that winery tasting rooms are not considered to be a public premises. The bill also allows producers to work with on-sale licenses to offer safe-ride-home promotions. Family Winemakers supported both bills.
Governor signs expanded non-profit wine events bill Late Saturday Governor Schwarzenegger signed SB 157 (Wiggins), a bill sponsored by Family Winemakers, that expands the ability of more non profit groups to hold wine sales events in conjunction with California wineries, hold wine tasting events where orders for wine can be taken, and hold wine tastings where custom crush producers can donate and pour wine. SB 157 will become effective January 1, 2009 and will increase the number of non profit groups that can hold these events by several thousand. It will allow consumers to locate wines that are often hard to find in a retail setting and increase the ability of California wineries, especially small producers, to increase brand awareness.
Which wineries do direct-to-consumer sales? Welcome to Family Winemakers of California's web site. The most value-added feature of the web site is our "Buying CA Wine" consumer map. Click there and you can simply find out if you live in a state that allows direct to consumer sales and more importantly, which Family Winemakers members are selling in your state. The list you'll find under each state will give you a direct link to that winery and its online store. Each state page contains valuable information for consumers buying wine.
Quick contact info If you'd like to contact us you may do so by calling (916) 498-7500. Our fax number is (916) 498-7505.
Or write us a letter and mail it to: Family Winemakers of California 520 Capitol Mall, Suite 260 Sacramento CA 95814 info@familywinemakers.org
