Wine merchants seek change in law

Wine merchants are hoping to put a cork in a Maryland law that prohibits wineries from shipping directly to Maryland consumers.

They're planning a big lobbying effort in Annapolis this coming session, which begins in January.

Maryland has a three-tier regulatory system on the sale of wine. It requires producers to sell to wholesalers, who then distribute wine to retail stores.

Adam Borden, executive director of Marylanders for Better Beer and Wine Laws, said he believes that interest in a change is building.

Opponents of direct sales say it would make it easier for minors to obtain alcohol.

The Baltimore Sun reports that the District and at least 35 states, including Virginia, have passed legislation authorizing direct shipment of wine to consumers.