Common TTB Labeling Errors: Adding New Text to an Approved COLA

Labeling, TTB /

One of the most common compliance mistakes we encounter in the alcohol beverage industry involves changes made to labels after a Certificate of Label Approval (“COLA”) has already been issued by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”). In particular, industry members often assume they may freely add marketing language, product descriptions, or […]

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What TTB Reports and Returns Are Required for Wineries?

TTB, Wine /

Operating a winery involves far more than producing and selling wine. Federal law imposes ongoing reporting and recordkeeping obligations on bonded wineries and bonded wine cellars, and failure to comply can lead to penalties, compliance issues, and unnecessary scrutiny from the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”). Once a winery receives its federal

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When Are Wine Labels Regulated by the FDA?

FDA, Labeling, Wine /

Low-alcohol wines have become an increasingly popular category within the broader beverage market. Consumers are often drawn to these products for their lower alcohol content, reduced calorie profile, and convenience—particularly when packaged in smaller, more portable formats suited for casual, on-the-go occasions. As demand continues to grow, producers entering this space should be mindful that

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How to Select a Distributor for Your Alcohol Beverage Brand — Part 3

Distribution /

This article is the final installment in our three-part series on selecting a distributor for your alcohol beverage product. In Parts 1 and 2, we addressed strategic fit, distributor structure, and key contractual considerations. In this installment, we focus on regulatory risk, due diligence, and how to make informed, defensible decisions when entering into a

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Has Your TTB Permit Changed Since Approval? What to Know About Amendments

Permits, TTB /

If your federal permit was approved some time ago, there is a strong possibility that your business has evolved since then. Changes to ownership, operations, location, or structure are common as companies grow—and many of these changes must be reported to the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”). In most cases, these updates

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How to Select the Right Distributor for Your Alcohol Beverage Brand — Part 2

Distribution /

This article is the second in our series on selecting a distributor for your alcohol beverage product. In Part 1, we covered foundational considerations such as size, geographic scope, and go-to-market strategy. Here, we turn to several additional—and often overlooked—factors that can significantly impact the success of your distribution relationship. Overlap with Competing Brands One

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Planning to Sell Your Distillery? Legal Considerations to Address Early

Distilled Spirits /

The sale of a distillery is not a routine business transaction. It involves transferring a federally bonded operation, regulated production activities, valuable intellectual property, distribution relationships, and often significant real estate and equipment. Because distilled spirits are subject to strict federal and state oversight, regulatory strategy must be integrated into the deal from the outset.

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How to Select a Distributor for Your Alcohol Beverage Brand — Part 1

1 Comment / Distribution /

In the United States, the alcohol industry largely operates under the three-tier system, which separates producers, distributors, and retailers. As a result, nearly every brand—whether emerging or established—will eventually need to partner with a distributor to bring its products to market. Choosing that partner is one of the most consequential decisions a brand can make.

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Thinking About Selling Your Brewery? Key Legal Considerations

Beer, TTB /

A brewery sale is not a standard business exit. It involves transferring a federally bonded operation with regulatory approvals, production assets, distribution relationships, intellectual property, and often significant real estate and equipment. Because brewing is a highly regulated industry, the legal structure and licensing strategy behind the transaction are just as important as the purchase

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