California Wine Institute welcomes new chairman

By Andrew Catchpole

Published: 15 June, 2018

Chris Indelicato of Delicato Family Vineyards has been voted in by members as Wine Institute chairman for 2018 to 2019 at the association’s 84th annual meeting.

President and CEO of his family estates, Indelicato said that he was “honoured to serve as board chairman” of an association that brings together some 1,000 California wineries and related businesses.

“As a third-generation vintner, Wine Institute’s commitment to sustainable winegrowing aligns with our dedication to quality, innovation and environmental stewardship,” said Indelicato of the role.

“Wine Institute supports key public policy initiatives, such as extending the Craft Beverage Modernization and Tax Reform Act beyond 2019, so wineries can continue to invest in the future, expanding export opportunities through the removal of trade barriers, and stopping excise tax increases in state legislatures around the country,” he added in a statement.

Further additions to the board include: Hank Wetzel of Alexander Valley Vineyard as first vice chairman; John Sutton of The Wine Group as second vice chairman; Suzanne Groth of Groth Vineyards as treasurer; and Rick Tigner of Jackson Family Wines as secretary.

Bobby Koch remains as president and CEO of Wine Institute.

Premium California wines have been enjoying something a renaissance in the UK, where a combination of unfavourable euro-sterling exchange rates and rising prices for European classics, along with a new generation of fresher, more restrained and elegant styles, have encouraged restaurant buyers and independent merchants to re-engage with the category, with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay at the fore.

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