For entrepreneurs entering the beer industry, one of the earliest structural decisions is how — and where — your beer will be produced. Two common models dominate the conversation: alternating proprietorship and contract brewing. While both allow brands to avoid building a standalone brewery from day one, they are legally and operationally distinct. Choosing the […]
Orange wine has become one of the most talked-about categories in the modern wine world. Once considered niche, it now appears on wine lists ranging from natural wine bars to Michelin-starred restaurants. But despite its growing popularity, orange wine is often misunderstood. So what exactly is orange wine—and how is it regulated under U.S. law?
As more wineries look for flexible production options, two common operating models often come into focus: custom crush and alternating proprietorship (“AP”) arrangements. While both allow wineries to produce wine at facilities they do not own, they are treated very differently under federal and state law, and choosing the wrong structure can lead to licensing,
Custom Crush vs. Alternating Proprietorship: What Wineries Need to Know Read More »
Starting a spirits distribution business in the United States involves more than securing suppliers and customers. Because distilled spirits are one of the most heavily regulated categories of alcohol, distributors must navigate a layered system of federal, state, and local licensing, as well as ongoing compliance obligations. At the federal level, most spirits distributors must
When applying for a Distilled Spirits Plant (“DSP”) permit, one of the most common questions we hear is whether the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) will conduct an on-site inspection before approving the application. The short answer is: sometimes, but not always. Years ago, a site inspection was part of the application
Does the TTB Conduct a Site Inspection for a New DSP? Read More »
Under FDA regulations, most packaged food and beverage products are required to include a Nutrition Facts panel on their labels. However, the FDA recognizes that this requirement can be burdensome for very small businesses and therefore provides a Small Business Nutrition Labeling Exemption for qualifying companies. In general, a business may qualify for the exemption
What is the FDA Small Business Nutrition Labeling Exemption? Read More »
The U.S. wine market remains a dynamic and evolving sector, shaped by shifting consumer preferences, new producers, and changing regulations. For entrepreneurs, becoming a wine distributor offers an opportunity to build valuable relationships across the industry and participate in the nationwide movement of wine from producer to retailer. However, because alcohol distribution is one of
Formula approvals from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) are a core part of compliance for producers and importers of alcoholic beverages. A frequent question is whether TTB formula approvals expire—and the short answer depends on whether the product is domestic or imported. The Short Answer Below, we explain the differences, when
The U.S. beer market continues to expand with the growing popularity of craft, imported, and non-alcoholic beer. For entrepreneurs, starting a beer distribution business can be an exciting opportunity to enter the alcohol beverage industry—but it’s also one of the most heavily regulated sectors. Understanding the legal framework and operational steps is essential before launching
The alcohol industry is highly regulated, and New York is no exception. If you’re considering starting a distribution business in the Empire State, understanding the licensing process, compliance requirements, and ongoing obligations is essential. Distribution plays a critical role in the three-tier system, which separates alcohol producers, distributors, and retailers. Below is an overview of
How to Start an Alcohol Distribution Business in New York Read More »