Wine Institute President and CEO Robert P. ("Bobby") Koch announced today that he will retire from the association at the end of 2025, after 22 years in his current role and 33 years with the preeminent U.S. association representing wine producers.

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Wine Institute President and CEO Robert P. (“Bobby”) Koch will retire from the association at the end of 2025, after 22 years in his current role and 33 years with the preeminent U.S. association representing wine producers.

During Koch’s tenure, California wineries experienced unprecedented growth and success, capitalizing on expanded market access in the U.S. and abroad. Under his leadership, Wine Institute transformed the policy environment for wine producers, doubled its membership and built a best-in-class staff dedicated to protecting and promoting the wine community.

"When I started in 1992, I never envisioned how fortunate I would be to build a career working with some of the most successful and talented wineries in the world and nicest families and colleagues imaginable,” said Koch. “Our success is due to the commitment of Wine Institute’s officers, board of directors and members who devote their time to the greater good of the industry. Their engagement and resources benefit every single winery in the country and ensure that Wine Institute remains a world-class organization.

“In addition, I am so proud to have an incredibly talented team that works tirelessly on behalf of our members. I am full of gratitude for their unwavering support, loyal friendship and dedication. It is a team of exceptional professionals, and every day, I enjoy working with them, our members, industry partners and those in public service. Wine Institute is well positioned to continue to excel in the years ahead, achieving even more as we work together and stay united.”

Recognized for his ability to bridge the interests of small and large wineries in the industry’s policy debates, Koch has led Wine Institute with a unified voice.

Major policy and industry milestones during Koch’s tenure include:

• Expanding direct-to-consumer wine shipping to 48 states and the District of Columbia.
• Defeating “wholesaler monopoly protection” legislation in numerous states that would limit consumer choice.
• Securing Congressional affirmation in the 21^st Amendment Enforcement Act that the powers vested to the states under the 21^st Amendment are subject to Supreme Court interpretation and may be balanced with other provisions of the Constitution such as the Dormant Commerce Clause.
• Preserving the balance of federal and state authority in the regulation and oversight of alcohol in all states.
• Securing a permanent federal excise tax reduction for every winery in the country with passage of the Craft Beverage Modernization Act, enabling California wineries to reinvest over $600 million to date to grow their businesses since 2018.
• Placing California wine at the forefront of sustainable agriculture by creating and expanding the Certified California Sustainable Winegrowing (CCSW) program with 90% of California wine now made in a certified winery and 45% of California winegrape acreage certified to the program.
• Increasing U.S. exports with dedicated marketing programs in more than 40 countries.
• Wine Institute will soon launch innovative communications initiatives to highlight the unique and positive aspects of wine to both consumers and policymakers.

Industry Leaders Reflect on Koch’s Legacy

Industry leaders across California praised Koch’s extraordinary contributions and lasting impact on the wine community:

“Bobby has built an incredible organization and team and their work on behalf of small- and medium-sized wineries has an immeasurable impact on our ability to succeed in this highly competitive environment.”

— Robin Baggett, Wine Institute chairman and managing partner of Alpha Omega Winery

“Bobby has worked with three generations of my family and we are grateful for his leadership and all that he has done for the wine community.”

— Matt Gallo, Wine Institute chairman (fiscal year 2024-2025) and vice president and general manager of Gallo Vineyards, Inc.

“Bobby’s kindness and positive demeanor have been hallmarks of his incredible tenure, and we will all greatly miss working with him. His contributions will benefit our members for years to come.”

— Gretchen Roddick, Wine Institute officer and executive vice president at Hope Family Vineyards

“I have worked with Bobby since 1992 when, as board chair, I led the search that brought him to Wine Institute. His 30 plus years of dedication and commitment are truly remarkable. We are grateful for all that he has accomplished on our behalf.”

— Jerry Lohr, founder of J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines

Koch will lead the association as president and CEO until the start date of his successor. A nationwide search will be conducted by Russell Reynolds Associates.

About Wine Institute

Established in 1934, Wine Institute is the public policy advocacy group of more than 1,000 California wineries and affiliated businesses that initiates and advocates state, federal and international public policy to enhance the environment for the responsible production, consumption and enjoyment of wine.

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Wine Institute is well positioned to continue to excel in the years ahead, achieving even more as we work together and stay united.