SACRAMENTO, December 16, 2024 – The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) proudly commemorates its 50th anniversary, marking half a century of steadfast advocacy and leadership on behalf of California winegrape growers. Since its incorporation on December 16, 1974, CAWG has been dedicated to representing the interests of growers and advancing the sustainability and long-term success of California’s wine industry.
CAWG hosted a celebratory event in Sacramento on November 21 to honor this milestone. The occasion brought together growers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to reflect on the association’s history and achievements. The evenings program featured remarks from past and present CAWG leaders, a historical retrospective on the evolution of California’s wine industry, and a toast to the future of winegrape growing in the golden state. The celebration also recognized the contributions of CAWG’s founding members and the ongoing support of its growers, associate members, and industry partners.
“CAWG’s 50th anniversary is a testament to the resilience, innovation, and dedication of California’s winegrape
growers,” said CAWG President Natalie Collins. “As we celebrate this milestone, we also renew our commitment to advocating for policies and programs that support the long-term viability of our members and the broader wine industry.”
CAWG has played a critical role in shaping industry policies, fostering collaboration, and promoting the state’s winegrape growers as leaders in sustainable farming practices. Over the past five decades, CAWG’s efforts have included championing progress related to water resources, labor policy, pest management, and wildfire recovery.
As CAWG looks ahead to its next 50 years, the association remains focused on driving innovation, sustainability, and economic growth for California’s winegrape growers. With California producing over 80% of the nation’s wine, CAWG’s work continues to be integral to the success of an industry that contributes $73 billion annually to the state’s economy.
We invite you to relive CAWG’s rich history through a special 50-year anniversary video, thoughtfully produced to highlight the milestones, achievements, and enduring legacy of the California Association of Winegrape Growers.
For more detailed information about CAWG’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and history, please visit the associations newly launched Substack page: https://substack.com/@cawg.
About the California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG): CAWG is a statewide nonprofit trade association advocating for California’s winegrape growers to ensure the sustainability of the winegrape industry. CAWG promotes the industry’s long-term success by advancing the adoption of sound public policies and fostering awareness and understanding of winegrape growers’ contributions to the economy, environment, and California communities. Learn more at cawg.org.
