HB2450

I blogged about Mountain Rose Vineyards a while ago. They are a local winery with a great product. Like all small Virginia wineries they were restricted from selling their wine directly to restaurants do to a 2005 court ruling. They have to sell to a qualified distributer instead of the freedom to cut out the middleman. No direct wholesaling is allowed. Del Saxman has HB2450 that would make life a little easier on wineries. It would allow them to sell 3000 cases directly to buyers. This bill leaves a lot to be desired, but it is a step forward for the wineries. I urge you to comment with your support for the bill here.

I am not saying that the wine business is a savior to Virginia's economy. In 1979 there were six farm wineries in the state. Today there are about 120 operating. That is a pretty good growth ratio. The Virginia wines are gaining in popularity here at home and across the country. As I said in my previous post the wines are very original. One of my favorites being Banner White:

"A panoply of true ripe peach, pineapple and banana exude from the elegant aroma delivered in this wine. The palate follows the same fruit characters leaving a mouthwatering finish just tempting you to take your next sip. Elegant, clean, tropical and "gulpable"!

"Gulpable" indeed! The bill has passed the house and is on its way to the senate. Call or email your senator and urge their support.

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