Update on AB 2606 – California Agave Commission Bill
The California Agave Council is actively gathering feedback on AB 2606, the bill to establish a California Agave Commission, and will continue doing so through 2025. No petition for activation will be submitted in the bill’s current form. Updated legislation could be introduced in early 2026, with changes potentially taking effect in 2027. A Commission would provide a grower-led, transparent structure to fund research, marketing, education, and policy efforts, helping ensure a strong and sustainable future for California’s agave industry. Growers and stakeholders are encouraged to stay informed and share feedback through the Council’s newsletter and email.
The California Agave Council is actively gathering feedback on AB 2606, the legislation that lays the groundwork for establishing a California Agave Commission. This feedback phase will continue through the end of 2025, aiming to incorporate a broad range of perspectives from growers, processors, and industry partners. Based on this input, we anticipate collaborating with the legislature in early 2026 to introduce a bill reflecting the agreed-upon changes. The CA Agave Council will not be petitioning CDFA for activation of AB 2606 in its present form.
The legislative process typically spans approximately nine months. Therefore, any enacted changes would likely take effect on January 1, 2027. Consequently, the earliest a vote to initiate the Commission could occur would be in early 2027.
We will continue to share updates and opportunities for discussion through our newsletter and social media channels. To stay informed and participate in the conversation, sign up for our newsletter at https://mailchi.mp/californiaagave/survey.We welcome your feedback at any time via email at Info@CaliforniaAgave.org.
What is a Commission, and Why is it Important?
A Commission is a grower-led, state-recognized organization that invests in education, research, marketing, and policy efforts through a transparent structure. Commissions have helped many California crops thrive, providing a framework for collective action and industry development.
Key Features of the Proposed California Agave Commission:
Nominal Cost per Pound: A small, per-pound fee collected by processors at harvest, ensuring contributions align with actual production. This approach, refined from the original acreage-based proposal, offers a more equitable and sustainable funding model for the long term.
Grower Rights: One grower equals one vote, regardless of size, protecting the interests of small and large growers alike.
Industry Control: Funds managed by an elected board of growers and processors, ensuring decisions are made by those directly involved in the industry.
Built-in Accountability: The Commission must be renewed by a majority vote every five years, allowing for regular reassessment of its effectiveness.
Equitable Cost-Sharing: No single entity bears the financial burden alone; costs are shared fairly across the industry.
The California agave industry is at a pivotal point of growth. Careful planning and investment are essential to ensure a strong future. Establishing a Commission is a crucial step toward creating the organization, stability, and shared resources needed to move the industry forward. It will also provide growers, investors and companies with confidence that the industry has a cohesive plan and the support necessary for successful growth.
We appreciate all the feedback received thus far and encourage ongoing input as we work together to shape the future of California's agave industry.
2025 CA Agave Symposium Wrap Up
The 2025 California Agave Symposium at UC Davis was an electrifying gathering of growers, distillers, researchers, and enthusiasts, all united by a shared passion for shaping the future of agave in California. The event buzzed with energy, featuring expert panels, groundbreaking research, and spirited discussions on sustainable cultivation and innovative distillation practices. Attendees left inspired and invigorated, ready to carry the momentum forward.
Dive into our full recap to relive the highlights and join us in driving this exciting movement ahead.
We’re still buzzing from the 2025 California Agave Symposium at UC Davis—what an amazing day! This was our largest gathering to date, with a packed expo floor, a stacked speaker lineup, and a community that keeps showing up, sharing knowledge, and building something truly special together. To see a short overview, here's a fun video from our friend at Planet Mezcal, and another from Maverick Farming Co.
Highlights from the Day:
We were thrilled to welcome keynote speakers Grover and Scarlet Sanschagrin, of Tequila Matchmaker—who used our stage to make a major announcement: they’re rebranding to Agave Matchmaker, reflecting a broader focus on agave spirits worldwide. Even more exciting? They’ve officially created a special category in their app just for California Agave Spirits—a huge win for our growers, distillers, and the future of this industry.
They also shared details on the upcoming Agavos Awards, which celebrate transparency and excellence in additive-free agave spirits—a mission that deeply aligns with what we’re building here in California.
From Science to Spirits:
Dr. June Simpson from Mexico's Cinvestav Unidad Irapuato discussed molecular tools for studying agave diversity, while UC Davis's Dr. Ron Runnebaum presented ongoing research on agave genetics and crop viability in California's climate, and Rodrigo Mestas inspired us all with his pioneering work in regenerative agave farming. These voices are helping shape a better, more resilient industry.
We also got a market reality check from beverage industry veterans Eli Kestenbaum, John Young, and Julien Calella, who broke down branding strategies, the three-tier distribution system, and how to position California spirits in a growing global marketplace.
Breakout Sessions That Delivered:
Our breakout rooms were buzzing with energy all day. Panels featuring both distillers and growers brought honest, practical conversation to the forefront—what’s working, what’s not, and how we can support each other.
We also hosted two important sessions focused on the California Agave Council and the Agave Commission Bill, giving members and newcomers alike a chance to weigh in on the future of the industry, provide input and ask questions.
Another breakout session showcased agave's versatility beyond spirits. Professor Srabani Das from UC Merced discussed its potential as a sustainable livestock feed and biofuel source. Board Member Ane Diaz highlighted work transforming agave fibers into products like bags and paper. The Founders of Agave Brothers Ranch introduced surfboards crafted from agave quiotes, and other fun projects they're working on, and noted agave's role in reducing dust near the Salton Sea. The session emphasized agave's promise in sustainability and innovation.
And of course, the UC Davis researchers led sessions that shared the latest findings on agave's climate resilience, field trials, and how California can build a research-backed, sustainable agave industry.
A Buzzing Expo Floor, Thanks to Our Incredible Sponsors
The expo hall was packed and buzzing with energy all day long—filled with information, resources, demos, great conversations, and real collaboration between sponsors, growers, and distillers. Everywhere you looked, people were sharing ideas, making connections, and talking about how to support each other as this industry takes off.
A huge thank you to our incredible sponsors who made this event possible:
California Agave Growers Nursery Co-Op
Bank of America
Lallemand Distilling
Exeter Irrigation
Ocho Agaves
M8 Systems
Revival Stillworks
Agave Brothers Ranch
Agave Fans
Nutrien
And an extra special thank you to Agave Brothers Ranch, who blew the crowd away with a raffle of a stunning handcrafted agave surfboard—a truly gorgeous creation that perfectly captured the spirit and creativity of this community.
California Agave Reception – A Night to Remember!
We capped off the 2025 California Agave Symposium with a vibrant evening reception at Mulvaney’s B&L, where the energy was as strong as the spirits. We were proud to honor Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry, Craig Reynolds, and Ernesto Delgado with special awards for their outstanding support of the California agave industry. Each shared heartfelt, inspiring words that lit up the room.
Guests were welcomed with handcrafted California Agave Palomas and Ranch Waters, courtesy of Ventura Spirits, and treated to tastings from Shelter, Venus, Ventura, and Jano—each showcasing the exciting future of California-grown, additive-free agave spirits.
All of this was paired with Mulvaney’s legendary farm-to-fork fare, making for a truly unforgettable celebration.
What’s Next?
Stay tuned for much more! Smaller events are already being discussed around the state to keep the momentum going. As part of our CDFA Specialty Crop Block Grant the first phase is underway on our meta-analysis research project, and as new information and content is created we will keep giving updates. Whether you're a grower, distiller, researcher, or curious supporter, there will be more opportunities to learn, connect, and collaborate.
Thank you for your continued support that allows us to keep pushing this industry forward. If you're not already a member, now's the time! Join here.
Have ideas? Questions? Want to get involved? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.
Let’s keep this movement going.
—The California Agave Council Team
CALIFORNIA AGAVE Reception
Join us after the Symposium to celebrate California Agave, and to recognize three leaders that have championed the industry: Assembleymember Aguir-Curry, Craig Reynolds and Ernesto Delgado! We will also be featuring a tasting from California Agave Spirits Distillers Jano, Venus, Ventura and Shelter, as well as delicious farm to fork bites from the iconic Mulvaney’s B&L. Get your tickets!
Join us for a special reception following the California Agave Symposium as we celebrate our biggest supporters and the growing California agave industry. Enjoy handcrafted agave spirits and farm-to-fork bites at Mulvaney’s B&L, a beloved Sacramento institution.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with industry leaders, producers, and fellow enthusiasts in a relaxed and festive atmosphere.
We look forward to raising a glass with you!
CALIFORNIA AGAVE SYMPOSIUM
Don’t miss the biggest gathering for California Agave to learn from experts, ask your questions and network with other leaders in this exciting new movement.
Cultivating the Future: Practical Advice from Planting to Processing
This year’s Symposium is set to be our most engaging and informative event yet! Dive into the latest research, growing and distilling insights, and hands-on advice designed to propel the California agave industry forward.
Expect an exciting lineup of:
🌟 Expert-led discussions on the latest science and innovations.
🌱 Grower and distiller panels sharing real-world experiences and success stories.
💬 Interactive breakout sessions to explore the topics that matter most to you.
🤝 Ample opportunities to network, build community, and connect with industry leaders.
This year, we’re putting a special spotlight on practical tools and strategies for success. From planting and nurturing agave to harvesting and production, you’ll gain actionable takeaways to enhance your operation—whether you’re an established expert or taking your first steps into the agave world.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of an event that’s shaping the future of California’s agave industry.
We’re also thrilled to announce two of our featured speakers: Grover and Scarlet Sanschagrin of Tequila Matchmaker. They have some big updates to share, including their newly launched Agavos Awards, and will provide an overview of the agave industry, lessons learned in Mexico, and offer valuable insights and advice on the future of the international spirits market.
Tickets are only $100 + fees, for Full Members, and discounted also for Associate Level Members. Reach out to us if you’re a Full or Associate for your promo code. If you haven’t received your code yet, please contact us. Not a Full Member? Now’s the perfect time to join and save hundreds of dollars! Visit our Givebutter page to join!