WASHINGTON, D.C. – Wine Institute honored Senator Dianne Feinstein, D-California, with its Annual Leadership Award during its 29th Washington Week. Wine Institute President and CEO Robert P. (Bobby) Koch and Wine Institute Board Chairman Tom Klein, proprietor of Rodney Strong Vineyards in Healdsburg, Calif., presented the award in appreciation for Senator Feinstein’s longstanding support for the California and American wine industry. Senator Feinstein is a member of the Congressional Wine Caucus, Senate Committee on Appropriations, Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Senate Committee on Rules and Administration, and chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence.
"Senator Feinstein is a true champion for California wine. She supports open markets and balanced federal and state oversight for wine and alcohol," said Koch. "Additionally, she supports California’s wineries and vineyards in research, pest and disease control, and export promotion."
"Senator Feinstein supports our California sustainable winegrowing program which tracks with her solid record of protecting our nation’s natural resources," added Klein. "She is an advocate for us, and we are proud to honor her."
"California wine provides more than 800,000 jobs in the U.S. and is a significant economic driver for the state and nation," said Senator Feinstein. "I am delighted to accept this award from an industry whose families contribute to the economic well-being of our country and bring worldwide recognition to California through their wines."
Established in 1934, the Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group of more than 1,000 California wineries and affiliated businesses that initiate and advocate state, federal and international public policy to enhance the environment for the responsible consumption, production and enjoyment of wine. The Wine Institute membership represents 95 percent of California production and 85 percent of U.S. production.
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