Published in Distiller Magazine, Fall 2015
Draft distilling is the heart and soul of the alcohol movement. Many craft distillers began as hobbyists, keeping their day jobs while focusing night and weekend efforts on perfecting their spirits. And those efforts paid off: the industry is booming and many of those distilleries have grown beyond their expected capacity, forcing owners to quit their day jobs and focus on the business of distilling.
Even though the alcohol beverage industry is one of the most heavily regulated industries, most craft distilleries operate on a shoestring and legal advice is often considered an unnecessary expense. While the immediate benefit can be difficult to measure, there are key concepts particular to the alcohol industry that every distiller should know, and it is important to consult with an attorney who practices in the areas of both corporate law and alcohol law. Documents drafted for distillers need to be written by attorneys who understand distillers.