ABOUT THE WINE CAUCUS

The Congressional Wine Caucus (CWC) was founded in 1999 by Congressmen and winegrape growers Mike Thompson (D-St. Helena) and George Radanovich (R-Fresno) to protect the interests of the vibrant wine industry from grape to glass. Today, the Caucus brings together more than 200 Members of Congress representing all 50 states, and is chaired by Congressman Thompson and Congressman Lungren (R-Gold River).

Members of the Congressional Wine Caucus are joined not just by their deep appreciation of wine, but also by their understanding of the industry’s significant economic impact. The wine industry contributes an estimated $162 billion to the U.S. economy annually and provides the equivalent of 1.1 million full-time jobs. Wine exports in particular have experienced significant growth, with a record $1.14 billion in winery revenues in 2010.