Bill > SB588

This bill establishes a new "winery private club permit" in Arkansas that would allow permit holders to operate a winery with several specific privileges. The permit, which can be issued by the Director of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, would enable the winery to manufacture up to 10,000 cases of wine annually, store both self-produced and purchased wine, bottle wine purchased in bulk from out-of-state wineries, sell wine for on-site and off-site consumption, serve complimentary wine samples to members and their guests, sell wine to wholesale dealers for further retail distribution, and conduct wine-tasting events for educational or promotional purposes. The permit can be obtained even in dry areas, provided the applicant follows the standard permit application procedure outlined in existing state law. Notably, the permit does not require the winery to serve food on its premises, which distinguishes it from some other alcohol-serving establishments. This new permit type appears designed to provide more flexibility for small wineries in Arkansas, particularly those operating in areas with traditionally restrictive alcohol sales regulations.

Government Affairs

https://arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=sb588&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R