Lindsey Zahn P.C. guides distilleries through the TTB distilled spirits plant (DSP) permit, bonded premises planning, and state licensing, then advises on labels, age statements, and formulas. Federal and New York filings are handled together by one firm.
Filing for a federal distilled spirits plant (DSP) permit is a daunting task. How do you separate the bonded premises from the general premises? How are taxpaid and non-taxpaid spirits segregated? The way a DSP application is drafted can shape how your business operates for years.
Spirits labeling has its own complexities. When is an age statement required on whiskey, and how must it appear? What goes into a statement of composition, and how does it differ for a distilled spirits specialty versus a recognized cocktail? Lindsey Zahn P.C. helps new and established distilleries answer these questions.
How the Firm Helps
- Draft and file the federal DSP permit application
- Update and amend TTB permits
- Draft and file state license applications and amendments
- Draft and submit formulas to TTB
- Review labels and represent you during the COLA process
- Provide ongoing compliance guidance
Process and Timeline
- Plan the right structure. The firm maps your products and sales plans to the federal permit and state licenses you need.
- Federal permit. The firm prepares and files the distilled spirits plant (DSP) permit with TTB.
- State licensing. The firm prepares the state license, including New York State Liquor Authority filings for New York businesses.
- Formulas and labels. Before launch, the firm handles formulas, label review, and COLAs so products can ship on time.
Federal and state applications can often be prepared in parallel. Plan for agency review on both before your opening or launch date, and file labels and formulas once your permits are on track.
Recent Representations
- Developed the strategy and filed a non-contiguous premises application for a distillery, through TTB approval
- Lead counsel for a distillery’s ownership change across federal and state compliance
- Developed the strategy and drafted permit applications for a business operating as a winery, brewery, and distillery
- Established an alternating proprietorship at an existing distillery and negotiated the tenant’s agreement
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a DSP permit?
A distilled spirits plant (DSP) permit is the federal registration and permit a distillery needs from TTB to produce, store, or process spirits.
Does the firm work with businesses outside New York?
Yes. TTB and FDA requirements apply nationwide, and the firm represents clients across the United States on federal matters. It handles New York State Liquor Authority filings directly and advises on other states’ rules as your distribution grows.