California Association of Winegrape Growers

Overview

The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) is a nonprofit organization established in 1974 to advocate for the interests of California's wine grape growers. CAWG provides leadership in areas such as research and education programs, public policies, sustainable farming practices, and trade policies to enhance the California wine grape industry and its communities.

Mission and Vision

CAWG's mission is to protect and promote the interests of California winegrape growers by providing a unified voice, effective advocacy, and strong leadership. Its vision centers around advancing sound public policies and fostering awareness of winegrape growers' contributions to the economy, environment, and California communities.

Activities and Impact

CAWG represents growers responsible for over 60% of the gross grape tonnage crushed for wine and concentrate in California. The organization has collaborated with the American Society for Enology and Viticulture (ASEV) since 1995 to co-host the annual Unified Wine & Grape Symposium in Sacramento, California.

Notable Leadership

Karen Ross, a former president of CAWG from 1996 to 2009, went on to serve as Chief of Staff to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack before being appointed as the Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture in 2011.

Foundation

The California Association of Winegrape Growers Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization, conducts public education programs, funds scholarships, and supports research related to the California wine industry. It awards scholarships annually to high school seniors whose parents or legal guardians work for California winegrape growers, helping to further their education.

Conclusion

CAWG plays a crucial role in supporting and advocating for California's winegrape growers, promoting sustainability and economic growth within the industry.