Labeling Requirements for Non-Alcoholic Spirit Products: Key Compliance Considerations

Distilled Spirits, Labeling, TTB /

The market for non-alcoholic spirits and spirit alternatives continues to grow rapidly as consumers seek sophisticated beverage options without alcohol. However, despite the popularity of these products, many companies are surprised to learn that labeling non-alcoholic spirit products can present significant regulatory and compliance challenges. Unlike traditional distilled spirits, non-alcoholic spirit alternatives may fall under

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Common TTB Labeling Errors: The Government Warning Statement

Labeling /

One of the most frequently overlooked — yet critically important — requirements on alcohol beverage labels is the federal Government Warning Statement. Although the statement itself appears straightforward, we regularly encounter labels containing formatting errors, punctuation mistakes, improper placement, or incorrect font sizing. These seemingly minor issues can result in delays during the label approval

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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

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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