In these politically tense times, there’s a great story of bipartisan work taking place. And wouldn’t you know it… it has to do with wine!
The Congressional Wine Caucus was co-founded 20 years ago by California Congressmen Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) and George Radanovich (R-Fresno), and it’s known for functioning well and doing good work.
Today, the caucus is co-chaired by Thompson and Congressman Dan Newhouse (R-Sunnyside).
It was founded to protect America’s vibrant wine community from grape to glass.
“Members of the CWC are joined not only by their deep appreciation of wine, but also their understanding of the wine community’s significant economic impact,” the CWC’s website notes. “Wine is produced in all 50 states and generates jobs and revenue in both rural and urban areas. The wine community contributes an estimated $220 billion to the U.S. economy annually and creates the equivalent of more than one million full-time jobs.”
When Newhouse was appointed co-chair last month, he said, “As a farmer and wine grape grower, I am honored to serve with Mike Thompson as co-chair of the Congressional Wine Caucus. As the community continues to grow, Mike and I will advocate for growers, producers and sellers so we can continue to promote their products here and in countries around the world.”
That’s good news not only for winery owners, but also for wine drinkers. A certain amount of regulation will always be needed, but growers and winemakers, by and large, are responsible people. The more freedom they have to practice their crafts, the better the wines they produce will be.
And that would be a positive outcome for all of us.
