Wineries could distribute their own wine if a new bill passes

Local Alabama wineries may have an opportunity to expand their horizons. A new house bill could cut out the middle man, which could be good for business. But it's causing a stir because it could change legislation that has been around since prohibition.

It could be a great year for Alabama wineries if the new proposed legislation is passed. They would be allowed to self-distribute their wine and compete against the big winemakers.

Tim Watkins, co-owner of Whippoorwill Vineyards, said his business is limited by the current legislation. 

"The only outlet we have to sell our wines is through our tasting room," he said. "So it would allow us to move our product to some some outlets that would be available for the public that want to buy our wine."

Right now his winery produces about 2,000 cases a year. But it is not enough for a distributor to sign on to push his product in stores, which is what the current law requires.

"We actually like the distributor coming in and picking up our wine, but if you can not get a distributor to come down and pick up your wine, there's got to be another means and the only other means is to self-distribute," Chad Ledbetter, co-owner of Whippoorwill Vineyards said.

The owners of the winery said they think the proposed legislation will benefit everyone because it will help small businesses and Alabama farmers.

But the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board disagrees. They released this statement, "It is in conflict with the nationally recognized three-tier system of alcohol beverage distribution and Alabama law. The bill makes various other changes in the law... such as allowing the retail sale of liquor and beer, as well as wine at a winery and changes in the licensing system."

"It's really a shame that people away from this community can't have access unless they drive in," Karen O'Neal, a customer at the winery said.

Watkins is optimistic and said he hopes the legislation passes.

"It seems like it is a win-win situation for the state of Alabama," he said. "But you know, we'll see."

This bill was first introduced on March 31 by Rep. Becky Nordgren. She said this legislation would not only help small wineries expand as a business, but as a tourist attraction as part of the Alabama Wine Trail.