Filed in archive Wine Laws by Carol Bancroft on October 18, 2007

Folks in Ohio who have been enjoying direct shipments of wine are not happy about a new law that just passed, stopping these shipments as of October 1. Wineries that produce more than 150,000 gallons of wine(which is about 60,000 cases) can no longer ship to the state.

Consumers are unhappy that they will not be recieving shipments from wine clubs they belong to, and furthermore are displeased that the law was added to the state budget bill without any public discussion of it. On one hand, I certainly understand why they're upset. They've enjoyed direct shipments for two years, and let's face it - it's pretty nice not having to haul several bottles of wine home. But some people think that the law has a positive side for small wineries, particularly those in Ohio.

From Wine Spectator:

The new law also found support where some might not expect it: Donnie Winchell, executive director of the Ohio Wine Producers Association. Typically, local producer associations encourage open, direct shipping since, in theory, it helps small wineries grow their business beyond the borders of the state.

"We needed to continue the privilege of selling directly to retailers, because it's the only way we will continue to grow, and we need to be able to sell to people who come to our door and then ship to them when they get home," said Winchell. "When [this bill] came down the pipe, both of our concerns were addressed positively." All of Ohio's nearly 100 wineries produce less than 150,000 gallons per year.

I have to imagine that Mr. Winchell is in the minority, and consumers are likely to voice their displeasure loud and clear.

Related Entries:

Airline Woes Equal Wine Worries - 14 August 2006
Shipping Wine Tips - 15 August 2006
Ohio Works on Wine Bill - 22 April 2007
Indy Wine Shipping Law Unconstitutional - 31 August 2007

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Vote for Change In Ohio Wine Shipping Law:

Currently 6.50/10
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Rating: 6.50 out of 4 vote(s) cast.

Response from: Jennifer (10/24/07 11:12pm)

This new law is ridiculous. Do you honestly think that Ohio wines can even remotely compete with Napa and Sonoma wines? I hardly think this new law will make me purchase more Ohio wines. Hell, I wouldn't even cook with them-they are that terrible!

Response from: Angela (07/13/08 5:49pm)

The new law, while instituted with good intentions, is the wrong avenue for change. I signed up as a Independent Wine Consultant with a company out of California that handles boutique wines from small independent wineries out there. I did this as a way of earning extra income for my family and to learn more about the industry. This new law will put me out of business. All because a few individuals haven't stopped to realize that we're helping the industry and one of our competitor's shady business practices I'm going to lose much needed income making it difficult to support my family. With our economy already in shambles there are many Independent Wine Consultants in this state that can NOT afford this. Thank you to those who endeavored to take food from my childen's mouth. I hope you sleep well tonight!

Response from: tom (05/23/09 12:04pm)

Nothing more than a handout to distributors who add no value, but can raise the price of wines in our state with their mandatory mark-ups. Local retailers can only buy through them adding a layer of cost and limiting their ability to go out and find new wines. This law is a blatant infringement on free trade and to the acccess of Ohioan to products of their choosing. I will try to avoid buying any Ohio wines(a substandard product anyway) and any products promoted by the major distributors. Sadly, dry times are ahead.