MIAMI (AP) Florida's craft distillers want the right to sell their spirits directly to visitors walking in for tours and tastings.
The state's small wineries and brew pubs already can sell their products on site. Now distillers are hoping that bills introduced in the Florida Legislature will give them the same ability.
But distillers face opposition from powerful alcohol wholesalers and distributors. Florida's Retail Beverage Council says the legislation would take business away from distributors and retailers.
Supporters of the legislation say it would benefit distributors and retailers in the long run while giving distillers another way to build their brands. Ponte Vedra Beach Republican Ronald Renuart says his House bill could attract tourism, create jobs, and boost Florida agriculture as distilleries expand and buy local ingredients.
