HONORING THE MUNSELLE VINEYARDS

On 2026-05-12, Representative Mike Thompson (D-CA-4) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE MUNSELLE VINEYARDS" in the House.

HONORING THE MUNSELLE VINEYARDS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 80 (Tuesday, May 12, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 80 (Tuesday, May 12, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E431] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE MUNSELLE VINEYARDS ______ HON. MIKE THOMPSON of california in the house of representatives Tuesday, May 12, 2026 Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the contributions of Munselle Vineyards and the Munselle family on their 150th anniversary of farming in Sonoma County, California. Since 1876, the Munselle family has farmed the Alexander Valley in North Sonoma County, California. Over six generations, they grew high quality crops in our community's rich soil and ideal climate. The famijy's first ventures were in wine under the labels Lone Pine Cellars and Red Winery. Over time they expanded their business into other crops and livestock. These included grapes, hops, prunes, and dairy cattle. In 1972, the family returned to their roots and began growing wine grapes again. For the last five decades, the Munselle family has focused on producing premium wine grapes, which have in turn been made into many award-winning wines by wineries throughout our Sonoma County community. In 2006, Bret and Kristen Munselle partnered with Bret's parents, Bill and Reta Munselle, to launch the limited-production wine label, Munselle Vineyards. Today, Munselle Vineyards produces up to 1,000 cases of hand-crafted wine annually which are enjoyed by their customers throughout the seasons. In addition to the family's personal achievements, they are helping pioneer the future of farming in our community. Munselle Vineyards is a pilot farm in the Sonoma County Winegrowers' Farm ofthe Future initiative, an initiative connecting local farmers with cutting-edge agriculture technologies from John Deere, Agrology, and Wilbur-Ellis. Munselle Vineyards is a living laboratory for next-generation agriculture and is pioneering farming practices that enhance sustainability, efficiency, and long-term viability of family farms. In addition to this innovative spirit, the Munselle family are leaders beyond their own vineyards. They have stepped up as officers for both the Alexander Valley American Viticulture Area and Sonoma County Winegrowers, helping to shape the future of wine growing in our region. Mr. Speaker, I thank Munselle Vinyards and the Munselle family for their contributions to our community. Therefore, it is fitting and proper that we honor them here today. ____________________