It seems the same type of anti-homebrew nonsense that has been going on in Wisconsin is rearing it's ugly head in Illinois as well. For years clubs around our region have gathered at the Peoria International Beer Festival and served our homebrewed beers to very eager fest-goers. Not anymore. The Illinois Liquor Commission recently sent word to the organizers of the event that serving homebrew was illegal. Why after so many years of participation at the event the point was made now is beyond anybody's guess. The big rumour circulating now is that the State will soon be cracking down on homebrew competitions as well. Perhaps the AHA might be interested in taking on another fight? Our local clubs are willing to go to war on these issues but don't exactly know where to start. Any suggestions? Below is the statute the State has been waving around:
Illinois statute Chapter 235, Act 5, Article II, ยง 2-1 permits the making of wine, cider or other ALCOHOLIC LIQUOR by a person from fruits, vegetables or grains, or the products thereof, by simple fermentation and without distillation, if it is made solely for the use of the maker, his family and his guests.