Kentucky distillers, wineries and liquor retailers can now ship wine and spirits across state lines because of a new “bourbon without borders” law.
The law allows visitors to Kentucky to ship up to 4.5 liters of spirits or 4 cases of wine back home—as long as their home state allows it.
During a ceremonial bill signing on Friday, Gov. Matt Bevin said the new law will help build the state’s signature bourbon industry.
“This is becoming the Napa Valley of distilled spirits, it really is. Right here in the middle of America. The upside is far beyond what people would’ve imagined.”
The law only applies to visitors from seven states that allow interstate shipments of alcohol—Arizona, Hawaii, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota Rhode Island--and Washington D.C.
Under the new law, Kentucky distilleries and retailers are also allowed to create “club” programs where they can ship up to 9 liters of spirits over a 12-month period.
Eric Gregory, president of the Kentucky Distillers Association, said that visitors to Kentucky have demanded the right to ship bourbon home or to friends.
“This truly is the golden age of Kentucky bourbon. The dream that our ancestors had 200 years ago is coming true.”
It’s also still illegal to ship alcohol through the U.S. Postal Service, however UPS and FedEx allow it.
