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TTB Publishes FAQ on Tied House Ruling

3.21.2016 by Michael Kaiser The TTB has issued a set of frequently asked questions in response to their ruling on federal tied house violations (see our analysis here). The ruling was issued last month and was in response to Kroger’s proposal to allow a large distributor to control shelving in their stores. The TTB has … Read more

Mandatory FDA Menu Labeling Delayed Until Next Year

3.14.2016 By Michael Kaiser Chain Restaurant Menu Labeling to be implemented in 2017 As a result of language in the omnibus appropriations bill enacted December 18, 2015  FDA is delaying enforcement from December 1, 2016, to the date that is one year after it issues final guidance on menu labeling. It is unclear when the … Read more

Final Step Taken to Avoid Costly Tariffs on American Wine in Canada

3.7.2016 By Michael Kaiser The Department of Agriculture (USDA) has finalized the rule repealing country of origin labeling rules (COOL) for certain muscle cuts of meat. The repeal, as authorized by the 2015 Omnibus Appropriations Bill, will allow the the US to avoid costly tariffs places on goods, including wine, exported into Canada and Mexico. … Read more

TTB Expands the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area

The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau has expanded the Willamette Valley American Viticultural Area (AVA) in Oregon. The AVA expansion, a long term initiative of WineAmerica member King Estate, was approved on March 3. The Willamette Valley AVA expansion will allow many wineries who currently label their wine with a state or county … Read more

GMO and Menu Labeling Legislation Could Impact the Wine Industry

3.7.2016 By Michael Kaiser Small Bills Bubbling Under the Radar With the presidential election in full swing, and with many Senators and Members of Congress seeking re-election, there will not be many substantive bills either passed or signed into law this year.  However, there are several active bills that could impact the wine and grape … Read more