SB 290, the new bill that was passed by the North Carolina Senate in July, creates major changes to the state’s alcohol laws. One of the least talked about changes is malt beverage tastings allowed at farmers’ markets. Under the U.S. Federal Alcoholic Administration Act, a malt beverage must be made from a base that is 25 percent malt and contain at least 7.5 pounds of hops per 100 barrels of finished product. This change, effective since September 1, 2019, is creating a new demand in farmers markets across the state and could provide an opportunity for small breweries to expand their reach and grow their business. 

Breweries that hold a malt beverage special events permit may now provide samples or sell their products at farmers’ markets. The inclusion of breweries at at markets has the chance to increase the partnership between farmer and brewery. What will be interesting is whether individual farmers’ markets will include malt beverage producers in their scopes of preferred vendors, and how competitive it will be among breweries to get a spot at markets that allow them. Many farmers markets are currently reviewing this law change and deciding whether or not they will be included in their markets for the 2020 season. We are watching closely to see which markets will have malt beverages — and which breweries will be selling them — in the upcoming season. –Justin Burke-Samson 

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