Hudson Valley producers of cider, mead, braggot and other spirits are expected to benefit from a new law signed by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul that allows direct shipment of the products to consumers. Mead is made from honey, water and yeast and braggot is a mixture of mead and beer.
The new law makes permanent action that was taken during the Covid-19 pandemic to compensate for a falloff in in-person sales. It will be in effect after a 90-day waiting period, in time for the upcoming holiday shopping season.
The law allows shipping of 36 cases of liquor, cider or mead per year to a New York resident who is at least 21 years of age by an appropriately licensed manufacturer. The direct-to-consumer shipping is allowed by manufacturers located in New York state and by those outside of New York state whose states allow the receipt of similar shipments originating in New York.
Principal sponsor of the legislation in the State Senate was Sen. James Skoufis of Orange County. Principal sponsor of the Assembly version of the legislation was Donna Lupardo, whose 123rd Assembly District covers the City of Binghamton and surrounding towns.
“It will provide a lifeline for hundreds of small businesses, saving countless jobs,” Lupardo said. “New York produces some of the finest distilled spirits and cider in the country, long sought after by customers who could not find them on local liquor store shelves. This law allows their products to be safely and securely shipped, putting these craft beverage producers on the same playing field as New York’s wineries. I am especially thankful that the law will be in effect for this year’s holiday season, giving a significant economic boost to this struggling industry.”
Hochul’s office characterized wholesale distribution channels as placing smaller manufacturers at a competitive disadvantage, as their products are less likely to reach licensed retailers and consumers. It said that direct-to-consumer shipping offers an essential new outlet for these smaller producers, enabling them to build brand loyalty by connecting directly with consumers who want to enjoy the unique products that define New York’s craft beverage industry.
“New York’s craft manufacturers create distinctive, world-class products that deserve a broader audience,” Hochul said. “This legislation levels the playing field, allowing these small producers to reach new markets and foster economic growth across the state. With this new law, we are ensuring that New York remains a national leader in craft beverages, continuing to support our local businesses, tourism, and agriculture.”
Hochul points out that New York is home to the largest number of craft cideries in the nation and ranks second in the U.S. for the number of distilleries.
During the Covid-19 pandemic, New York craft manufacturers of spirits and cider were granted temporary direct-to-consumer shipping privileges to help them survive the economic downturn. This temporary measure proved highly successful, with no recorded violations, demonstrating that direct shipping can be done safely and responsibly. The new law permanently codifies this privilege, allowing small craft manufacturers to continue growing their businesses by reaching customers both within and outside of New York.
