Pinot Law

I wrote about this topic last year, and despite the unhappy ending, I am glad to see that our neighbor to the North is once again taking a shot at changing its direct wine shipping laws (for the better).  Senator Jamie Raskin (my old law school professor) introduced the bill, S 388.

Among other things, the bill (Adobe required) would establish a direct wine shipper’s license issued by the State of Maryland.  In addition to permitting self distribution by in state wineries, it establishes a permit process for out of state wineries to ship into Maryland.  You can read more information about the bill here, including sponsors and legislative history.  

I became aware of this legislation after receiving an e-mail from these folks — the Marylanders for Better Beer and Wine Laws.  I seem to recall these guys were around last year, and I wish them the best of luck in helping to get this legislation passed.  We will keep you posted.