Pinot Law

Like many other new, small, farm wineries in Virginia, I can tell you that our winery is starting to take a closer look at direct shipment laws — especially in neighboring states. It was therefore with great relief that I saw that our friends over at Free the Grapes are reporting on important news out of Maryland.

Apparently, Maryland’s state legislators are considering Senate Bill 616 and House Bill 1260, which, if passed, will significantly expand both the right of consumers to but wine, and the right of wineries to ship wine. The bills would allow any licensed winery or retailer in the US, regardless of its location, to ship a limited amount of wine to consumers residing in Maryland. I am also quite thrilled that one of my old law professors at American University is sponsoring the Senate version of the Bill — way to go Professor Senator Raskin!

Free the Grapes has a consumer action website here. Please take a moment to show your support to the Maryland legislature on these important bills.  They will be holding hearings on HB1260 early next week, so be sure to do your part!

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