Small makers of whiskey, vodka, gin and other liquors could get a boost under a bill passed Tuesday by the state Senate.
House Bill 514 would allow people who tour distilleries to take a free sip of the merchandise. The bill's sponsor, Rep. Rusty Kidd, I-Milledgeville, has said allowing such tastings could boost the small businesses and help stimulate tourism jobs the way wine tastings at Georgia's wineries have.
Under the bill, distilleries could give a single half-ounce sample to their visitors. Only one sample per person would be allowed each day. Supporters of the bill said it helps to offer a small sample before someone goes out and plunks down $30 on a bottle of something he might not like.
The debate Tuesday centered not on the bill but a proposed amendment that would have allowed package stores to offer wine tastings, which the law currently allows only at stores that sell wine.
The amendment failed, but not before Sen. Cecil Staton, R-Macon, could chastise the "Gucci-loafer-wearing lobbyists who represent the liquor industry" for opposing an amendment that would help "merchants across the state level the playing field."
HB 514 passed the House last month. It was not changed by the Senate, which passed it on a 34-14 vote. It now goes to the governor for his signature to become law.
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