Governor Roy Cooper signed into law today new legislation allowing North Carolina consumers the opportunity to sample distilled spirits products at tasting events held in state ABC stores.
“Today’s spirits consumers are fascinated by cocktail culture and want to learn more about the heritage and taste profile of different types of distilled spirits,” says David Wojnar, VP of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. “Consumers want to purchase these fine spirits for their home, but they would like to sample them before making their buying decision. Spirits tastings events provide consumers with the opportunity to ‘try before they buy’ in a responsible retail setting.”
Under the new law, North Carolina consumers will be able to sample 0.25 fluid ounces of up to four different spirits products made available at pre-planned spirits tasting events.
The law goes into effect September 1, 2019.
North Carolina is the latest in a trend of states modernizing their alcohol laws to increase consumer convenience and choice. Since 2009, 17 states have permitted distilled spirits tastings – bringing the total to 47 states that allow some form of spirits tastings.
