CAWG History

The Voice of California Winegrape Growers
The California Association of Winegrape Growers (CAWG) began more than 40 years ago when a small group of winegrape growers concerned about establishing fair prices for grapes established the Wine Grape Bargaining Association. Until that time, winegrape growers did not have a statewide organization to focus exclusively on issues affecting their livelihood like other specialty crops did.

While fair prices were the initial rallying cry, meetings with growers throughout the state showed a greater interest in creating an association to handle the growing spectrum of winegrape issues - including pest and disease management, water use, marketing, uniform grade standards, promotion, education and research, and most of all, advocacy with state and federal lawmakers. 

A survey of the state’s winegrape growers was commissioned to determine if an organization had a chance to succeed. On Dec. 16, 1974, articles of incorporation were created and CAWG was established.


Mission Statement:
The California Association of Winegrape Growers protects and promotes the interests of California winegrape growers by providing members a unified voice, effective advocacy and strong leadership.

Vision Statement:
CAWG promotes the winegrowing 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.