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 »
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
For many wineries, partnering with a distributor is a necessary step to expand market reach. But before signing a distribution agreement, wineries must understand the legal framework that may govern the relationship: franchise laws. These state-level laws can significantly impact how—and whether—a winery can terminate, modify, or exit a distributor relationship. What Are Franchise Laws
When it comes to wine labeling in the United States, grape variety designations play an important role in how wineries market their products and how consumers make purchasing decisions. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) regulates these designations and maintains a list of approved grape varieties that may appear on American wine
When most people think about wine labeling requirements in the United States, the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) typically comes to mind. For the majority of wines sold in the U.S., this is correct—the TTB regulates labeling and advertising for wines containing 7% alcohol by volume (“ABV”) or more. However, wines with
FDA Wine Labeling Requirements for Low-Alcohol Wines Read More »
Whether you’re a start-up wine brand without your own facility or an established producer looking to scale, partnering with a co-packer or custom crush producer can be a smart way to bring your product to market. But without a well-drafted contract, you may be leaving your business exposed to costly disputes, compliance headaches, and even
Launching or expanding a wine brand doesn’t always mean building your own winery or investing in expensive winemaking equipment. For many brand owners, wine contract production—often referred to as a custom crush arrangement—offers a practical, cost‑effective solution to bring wines to market. What Is a Custom Crush Arrangement? A custom crush arrangement allows a wine
What Is Wine Contract Production or a Custom Crush Arrangement? Read More »
If you’re planning to start a winery, brewery, or distillery—or launch a new product under an existing license—one of the first questions is: How long will it take to get a TTB permit? Understanding the timeline can help you plan your launch, budget your time, and avoid costly delays. The Type of Permit Application Matters
Starting a winery in the United States is more than crafting exceptional wines—it requires compliance with federal regulations before you can produce or sell a single bottle. One of the most critical steps for any aspiring winery is obtaining a TTB Federal Basic Winery Permit. What Is a Federal Basic Winery Permit? A Federal Basic