California Zinfandel Month.
The resolution is recognized as a celebration of California's wine industry, particularly highlighting the cultural and historical contributions of Zinfandel to the state's agriculture and economy. It brings attention to regions like Lodi, known for their century-old vineyards that produce exceptional Zinfandel wine. As a heritage grape, Zinfandel has become symbolic not only of California's viticultural landscape but also of the heritage, traditions, and communities associated with wine production.
Assembly Concurrent Resolution No. 227, introduced by Cooper, proclaims the month of May as California Zinfandel Month, beginning in May 2018 and each subsequent year thereafter. This resolution aims to honor the Zinfandel grape's deep-rooted history in California, tracing its origins back to the 1850s during the gold rush. The measure emphasizes the grape's versatility and its significance as the most widely planted grape variety in the state, celebrated for producing a range of wines from light and fruity to complex and syrupy.
The general sentiment surrounding ACR 227 is positive, with unanimous support during voting, indicated by a 37 to 0 tick in favor of the resolution. This highlights a collective acknowledgment of the grape's importance among the legislative body. The measure serves to boost local pride and community engagement, while also promoting tourism related to wine production and consumption.
While the resolution aims to unite and celebrate California's Zinfandel, there are underlying concerns regarding labor shortages affecting older vineyards and the potential loss of these heritage vines. With some growers uprooting Zinfandel in favor of more lucrative crops, this measure indirectly raises awareness of the challenges facing traditional viticulture, making the celebration of Zinfandel not just a moment of recognition but also a call to action to preserve California's agricultural history.