Local winemaker John Catalano said he believes strongly in truthfully labeling his products. All of his Texas wines are made from 100 percent Texas grapes, and all of his California wines are 100 percent California.
He said his winery, Bent Oak Winery in Austin, would not be affected by proposed legislation that would require all wines labeled as originating in Texas to be derived from the juice or fruit wholly grown and produced in the state; that is, made from 100 percent Texas grapes.
Sponsored in the Texas Senate by State Sen. Dawn Buckingham, R-Lakeway, and by Rep. Jason Isaac, R-Dripping Springs, in the Texas House of Representatives, the identical bills were filed March 9 and Feb. 2, respectively. As of the date of this publication, no legislative votes have been taken, though the bills were sent to committees in March.
Even though it would not affect business, Catalano said he is not in favor of the legislation.
