Bill > AB933

This bill amends existing law to clarify and expand provisions related to tastings of distilled spirits and brandy offered by manufacturers. Specifically, it allows distilled spirits manufacturers to conduct tastings of their products on or off their premises, with off-site tastings only permitted at events sponsored by nonprofit organizations, and prohibits the manufacturer from selling or soliciting sales at such events. Similarly, a new section is added to allow brandy manufacturers to conduct tastings of their brandy products under similar conditions, including limitations on the size and number of tastes per person, and restrictions on serving mixed drinks or by individuals under 21. The bill also clarifies that while manufacturers can provide tastings for free, they can charge for tastings conducted on their own licensed premises, and emphasizes that these provisions do not exempt manufacturers from liability for violations of laws related to the sale and distribution of alcoholic beverages. The Legislature's intent is to maintain a separation between manufacturing, wholesale, and retail interests in the alcoholic beverage industry, and these tasting exceptions are meant to be narrowly construed.