CAL.Regulation
California authorizes instructional alcohol tasting events under new tied-house exception rules
SB 1273 (Chapter 428), approved September 20, amended Business and Professions Code Section 25503.56, the tied-house exception for instructional tasting events on qualifying off-sale premises. Authorized licensees may conduct consumer tastings of wine, beer, or distilled spirits with per-person caps — one-fourth ounce for spirits, one ounce for wine, eight ounces of beer per day — and no charge may be made.
Enrolled text (California Legislative Information) → · Governor of California
Key points
- At most three tastings per person per day are permitted.California Legislative Information
- Persons under 21 may not serve; tastes must be served by the licensee's employee or designated representative.California Legislative Information
- Advertisements may not state retail prices or include laudatory references beyond event participation.California Legislative Information
- No premium, gift, free goods, or other thing of value may be given away in connection with an event.California Legislative Information
- Exclusivity agreements barring other suppliers' events are prohibited; violations draw a six-month to one-year suspension of the tasting privilege.California Legislative Information
Sources2 articles across 2 outlets
California Legislative Information
Governor of California