Microdistilleries could sell their product off-sale with no limitations and would be allowed to self-distribute, under a bill that lawmakers are considering in the Minnesota House. Rick Schneider with Isanti Spirits argues it gives him a chance to build customer base. Schneider says, “When they’re there, they’re tasting it, they’ve heard the story — that’s when they’re ready to buy.” Schneider says if someone walks out the door without buying, they’ll forget a microdistiller even exists when they go to the liquor store and purchase their familiar product.
Liquor industry representatives oppose the bill, arguing microdistilleries should follow the rules everyone else does in building their business. The bill would also allow municipalities to grant Sunday on-sale licenses for microdistillery cocktail rooms.