[Darrag]

Hi, Im new to the forum. I am currently looking to start my own winery, specifically producing Mead. I know this forum tends to lean heavily towards beer brewing, but the issues Im having are more or less universal to the brewing industry. I am starting my business and going through the legal hurdles that seem to be everywhere while trying to get my name out. I am looking for advice on giving away free samples and the legality behind it. I am aware of Texas laws on homebrewing but cannot seem to locate anything specifically about samples. I am aware that I cannot make any attempts to make money off of the product, so no entry fees for events, no rewarding donations with bottles, etc. but is there a rule overall about hosting a free event to give away samples?

If its not illegal to have an event, would the addition of a donation system completely unaffected by the product be advisable?

Please let me know what yall think!

[redrocker652002]

I have no experience on any of this, but just wanted to say good luck to you.  You will get a lot of input I am sure, this place rocks!!!!!

[denny]

Hi, Im new to the forum. I am currently looking to start my own winery, specifically producing Mead. I know this forum tends to lean heavily towards beer brewing, but the issues Im having are more or less universal to the brewing industry. I am starting my business and going through the legal hurdles that seem to be everywhere while trying to get my name out. I am looking for advice on giving away free samples and the legality behind it. I am aware of Texas laws on homebrewing but cannot seem to locate anything specifically about samples. I am aware that I cannot make any attempts to make money off of the product, so no entry fees for events, no rewarding donations with bottles, etc. but is there a rule overall about hosting a free event to give away samples?

If its not illegal to have an event, would the addition of a donation system completely unaffected by the product be advisable?

Please let me know what yall think!

You really need locally based legal advice.

[reverseapachemaster]

Contact some of the meaderies around Austin and ask if they can refer you to their legal counsel. The TABC is strict about its regulations and typically adopts the most narrow interpretation of the alcohol code and its own regulations.

[majorvices]

Your state or local brewers/vintners guild will be best suited to answer this question

[Thirsty_Monk]

I would hold off on any free samples till you are fully licensed.

I understand it can be a long process but it is not worth it to be denied license because you violated a law.

Good luck.