Governor signs bill to allow breweries to serve samples

Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company first to take advantage of new licensing privilege

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Sept. 3, 2013) – Gov. Steve Beshear on Tuesday ceremonially signed into law House Bill 315 at Alltech’s Lexington Brewing and Distilling Company. The legislation, passed earlier this year by the General Assembly, allows brewers to serve on their brewing premises complimentary samples of malt beverages produced at their breweries.

“Tourism is a vital part of Kentucky’s economy, and the enactment of this legislation gives Kentucky yet another promotable product that will entice more visitors to the commonwealth,” Beshear said. “Combined with our world-known Kentucky Bourbon Trail promotion, Kentucky is fast becoming the place to visit when travelers are looking for a unique experience.”

The legislation, sponsored by Rep. Robert Damron, D-Nicholasville, is designed to encourage Alltech and other future Kentucky brewers to become part of Kentucky’s tourism industry.

Beer sampling at Alltech’s brewery ceased in July 2012 after the brewery grew too large to qualify for a tasting permit under Kentucky law. With the passage of House Bill 315, the brewery is now able to offer beer samples again as part of its regular tour.

Damron believes this will make Alltech and other brewers who choose to follow suit a more attractive tourist stop.

“I was pleased to have sponsored House Bill 315, better known as the tastings bill,” he said. “The economic development implications of this measure will serve a vital role in creating enhanced opportunities for one of Kentucky’s core industries to better promote their product. This is an added value that will benefit Kentucky businesses and communities for many years to come.”

“With the growth of craft beer nationwide, this measure will allow craft brewers to expand and promote their products,” said Dr. Pearse Lyons, founder and president of Alltech. “After all, craft brewers are entrepreneurs at their core, and this new bill will support the growing entrepreneurship of those brewers in Kentucky.”