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
For alcohol producers, understanding the roles of the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”) is critical. While both agencies play a part in ensuring the safety, quality, and labeling of alcohol beverage products, their areas of oversight differ. The FDA primarily regulates food safety and non-alcohol
What the FDA Regulates vs. What the TTB Regulates: Key Differences for Alcohol Producers Read More »
In the dynamic and highly regulated world of food and beverage production, ensuring compliance with federal laws is a cornerstone of successful operations. Among the key players in the regulatory landscape, the Food and Drug Administration (“FDA”) stands out as a pivotal agency that safeguards public health. While many alcohol producers—such as wineries, breweries, distilleries,
Understanding the FDA: A Comprehensive Guide for Food and Alcohol Producers Read More »
One of the most frequently asked questions in the industry is: Do I need a TTB permit as a wine brand owner? The answer depends on the nature of your business model and operations. Many wine brand owners work with producers or contract wineries to create and bottle their products. Typically, a formal agreement is
Am I Required to Obtain a TTB Permit as a Wine Brand Owner? Read More »