Congress is in recess (again), even though a potential government shutdown is fast approaching. While Congress is gone, WineAmerica continues working on other issues for the wine industry, led by Michael Kaiser, Executive Vice President and Director of Government Affairs, who was recently profiled as a Wine Industry Champion by Wine Industry Advisor . The Tax and … Read more
Alaskan wine? Yes. While the climate is certainly not conducive to growing vinifera grapes (which are imported as juice from California), honey and several native fruits suitable for the environment thrive and are transformed into mead and fruit wines. Wineries include Bear Creek Winery and Solitude Springs Farm and Vineyard. Great Grapes: Valiant Maybe this unique red wine … Read more
Congress did a few things this week, though none affecting the wine industry. The Senate passed a bill proposing more funding for Ukraine and Israel, but it’s likely to die in the House. Meanwhile, House Republicans impeached Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas over border issues. On Long Island, the New York seat formerly occupied by expelled … Read more
Alabama has two climates making it challenging to make wine: the natural climate and the political climate. The hot, humid climate limits the grape varieties that can be grown to Scuppernong, Norton, and some French hybrid varieties. The political climate improved somewhat due to agricultural reforms in 2002 that loosened some restrictions on wineries, but … Read more
Congress has just two joint legislative days scheduled for February, but somewhat surprisingly last week the House passed a bipartisan tax bill which then went to the Senate for consideration. In less than a month, there could be a government shutdown unless Congress and the Administration can come together. There are some legislators who would … Read more