OREGON JUDGE HANDS DOWN A RULING ON DIRECT SHIPMENTS

Oregon has passed a new law allowing in-state and out-of-state wineries to ship directly to retailers.

Sources are saying that Judge Charlotte Rutherford’s decision is unlikely to stand since the five OLCC commissioners have the option of overturning the ruling. Agency spokesman Ken Palke says the commission will make a decision on the case no earlier than its Dec. 14 meeting.

Paul Romain, director of the Oregon Beer & Wine Distributors Association, says if the commission fails to reverse the judge's decision, he will probably file a lawsuit to prevent out-of-state wineries from getting licenses. On the other hand, winery advocates are pledging to proceed immediately to the Oregon Court of Appeals if their victory is overturned.