Direct Wine Shipping
Did you know that across the country, shipping wine directly to a consumer in another state may be illegal - even if the wine shipped is from a winery to an adult consumer 21 years or older?
When the 18th Amendment to our Constitution was ratified, it banned the manufacture and sale of alcoholic beverages throughout the nation - we know this amendment as Prohibition. In order to repeal Prohibition in 1933 with the 21st Amendment - Congress gave states rights that regulate the sale, distribution and importation of alcoholic beverages within and across their borders.
A three tier system to handle the distribution of wine is currently in place in most states, however many smaller and family owned wineries are unable to secure these distributors because their production is just too small. As a result, many wines are unavailable to consumers across the nation who could otherwise order and enjoy them.
Those who live in wine regions may find that it is illegal to ship wine as gifts to friends and relatives in other states. Additionally, those who visit wine regions may also be thwarted in their search for a favorite new wine if the wine is unavailable in their state and/or shipment of wine to that state is illegal. The Internet has opened markets for many products, however because of archaic direct shipping laws wine is being largely excluded.
Proponents of direct shipping seek aumentation, not replacement, of the recognized three-tier system with controls and regulations necessary to respect local laws, to avoid underage access and to provide provisions to make tax payments to states.
What you can do to help: Visit www.freethegrapes.org to learn more about the direct shipping issue and how consumers can help ensure fair direct shipping laws.