In Washington currently, the state controls the distribution and retail sale of spirits (sells from the distillery are also allowed as long as local ingredients are used in the manufacturing). For a small craft distiller, the state will fill special orders (products not carried on the store shelves) as long as he/she can generate demand. Any bar, restaurant, or citizen can order a case of a distiller's product and the state will call and ask them to bring the necessary amounts to the distribution center.
With only 500 or so state stores that have limited hours, the public loses a little on efficiency and availability, but we the small distillers gain in terms of a level playing field and guaranteed distribution.
But, this might all be changing. We're facing two initiatives on the ballot this fall. Both will privatize the sale of liquor. However, the first I-1100 would also deregulate distribution such that manufacturers could sale directly to licensed retailers. The second initiative I-1105 is just like the first except that it maintains the three system. As you would imagine, there is big money at play. Costco is backing the 1st and big distribution companies are backing the 2nd.
The change to the Washington laws has the potential to cause a large amount of disruption and chaos to those of us that are operating in Washington. We are trying to understand how the changes will affect us. It would help to know how other states operate.
If you operate in state that allows you to self distribute, would you make a post or send me a message. I'd be interested to hear your impressions.
Alternatively, for those of you with far reaching distribution, which state do you think has the best laws with regards to the small distiller?
Regards,
Steven Stone
Sound Spirits
Seattle, WA