LCB Launching “PA Spirits Program”

Local distilleries can choose the stores they want to be in.

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Good news for Pennsylvania distilleries, several of whom recently saw their products removed from Pennsylvania Fine Wine & Good Spirits shops. In an effort to support Pennsylvania distilleries, the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board is launching the PA Spirits Program, which grants Limited Distillery license holders in the state the opportunity to place up to 10 products in up to 10 liquor stores of their choosing.

The program will allow local distilleries to target their products at the stores of their choosing. To be eligible to participate, all products must be distilled in Pennsylvania must submit their products no later than May 19th. Once selected, distilleries must sell a minimum of one case per month per store to remain in the program.

The program is similar to the PA Preferred Wine Program that began in 2012. PLCB chairman Tim Holden says, “the PA Spirits Program is a natural extension to make sure we’re meeting the demand, not just of local wine enthusiasts but also those consumers looking for locally made spirits as well.”

Distilleries are a growing business in Pennsylvania. The commonwealth has seen the number of active Limited Distillery licenses grow from 12 in 2012 to 27 today.

PLCB member Mike Negra says, “we want to be as supportive as we can to ensure they continue to flourish. We have taken a number of steps to support Pennsylvania wine and spirits producers, including creating a special area in our rebranded stores to feature ‘Made in PA’ products; featuring them on our retail website, www.FineWineAndGoodSpirits.com; and focusing on a local distillery or winery in our quarterly magazine, Taste. We are committed to continuing to look for ways to raise consumer awareness about all the great Pennsylvania wine and spirits our stores have to offer.”