We are proud to share that our very own Executive VP & General Manager Barry White and Director of Sales & Education Stephanie Metzler were on hand to represent the Wine Institute at the California State Capitol for the introduction of SR 64, a Senate Resolution declaring September 2025 as California Wine Month.
On August 29, 2025, Senator Christopher Cabaldon (D – Senate District 3) introduced SR 64, a Senate Resolution declaring September 2025 as California Wine Month. It was co-authored by Senator Jerry McNerney (D-District 5) and Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil (R-District 4), who each gave impassioned speeches about the quality and cultural significance of California’s wine community. The resolution was supported unanimously by the California State Senate.
Barry and Stephanie were invited to a private session with Senator Cabaldon before the proceedings, then escorted to the Senate Gallery to view the official proclamation—during which they got shoutouts and waves from the Senate floor. Barry and Stephanie were joined by Joe King of Wente Family Vineyards. “It’s a big win when we can bring major attention to our industry and its economic impact,” Barry says. “California Wine Month is a vehicle to push that message home.”
Barry joined the board of the Wine Institute in May, and he is helping guide the Next Generation Committee, which is focused on future-forward policies and opportunities. His role at the Wine Institute paved the way for Ancient Peaks to represent the industry during this state proclamation.
It was a great honor for Barry, Stephanie and Ancient Peaks to help drive our industry forward at the state level and to represent all that California wine brings to the economic table across the nation.