SONOMA COUNTY GROWERS OUT FOR A NAME

Sonoma County growers are backing SB1380, a “truth in labeling” law - much like recent Napa legislation - that would ensure Sonoma grapes are used in a wine with Sonoma on the label. Under the bill wine brands with Sonoma in the title must use at least 75% of Sonoma County grapes. Currently, wine brands with Sonoma labels can be produced from grapes grown anywhere else without a hint of Sonoma fruit. Vintners hope that if the bill is passed, consumers will be better informed and not misled in any way about what they are purchasing. Also, the law would increase the value of Sonoma grapes which will become increasingly important in pushing the proposed Sonoma County Winegrape Commission, a system in which Sonoma growers will tax themselves to raise money.


Napa set the precedent in 2000 with a similar bill and proved the law’s validity in court with the recent Bronco Wine Co. case. Although Sonoma vintners claim there is no current abuse of the county’s name, the law will help protect Sonoma growers in the future. SB 1380 passed through the Senate’s government organization committee yesterday with a unanimous vote. The legislation is expected to come for a final vote sometime this summer and if approved, it would become a law on Jan. 1, 2007.