WHOLESALERS APPEAL DIRECT SHIPPING LOSS IN INDIANA

The Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America (WSWA) and other groups filed an amicus brief in support of an appeal on a lower court decision in Indiana that struck down face-to-face requirements in August. WSWA has filed similar briefs in four other federal appeals since that time.

“We’re saying in Indiana what we’ve consistently said everywhere else: that alcohol is a sensitive product that demands special efforts by the states to control who sells it, where they sell it, and how,” WSWA president and chief Craig Wolf said. “Those who say alcohol products should be treated just like jeans and CDs are overlooking the stake all communities have in safe, responsible commerce.”

The lower court said the face-to-face requirement “discriminates” against out-of-state wineries. As you’ll recall, most wineries think face-to-face requirements are protectionist because it requires consumers to visit a winery first before placing internet and phone orders for direct to consumer shipments. They argue that it’s easier for Indiana residents to visit an in-state winery than an out-of-state winery. We’ll keep you posted on the federal court decision.