We're a vineyards in CA which are able to sell wines to customers. We have an individual client who lives in GA and would like to purchase 300 cases of wines from our vineyards. It's supposed to perform a direct shipment, or a distributor may help finish the shipment. But she wants to drive a truck by herself, pick up the wines in CA and then drive back to GA. Is it legal for her to do that?
Answer From Expert Roger Bohmrich MW
I am not sure if I can answer this question definitively since it raises several legal technicalities. First, it is clear that anyone purchasing 300 cases does not intend to consume this quantity of wine by themselves as private consumers; in other words, this is a de facto commercial transaction between this individual and the winery. While individuals may get away with transporting a few cases for their own use, handling large volumes raises a red flag as to their intent. Logically, authorities will assume they plan to sell the wine in Georgia, perhaps evading authorized distribution channels and regulations in that state. From your description, it does not appear this person has a licensed retail business, and even if they did, they might be violating state law by not purchasing from a licensed wholesaler in Georgia. Furthermore, they may violate regulations along their route by moving this volume across numerous state lines, unless they have the necessary permits to transport alcoholic beverages. They may be primarily responsible, but the winery could be in jeopardy as well under the circumstances. My recommendation is that you consider all the facts very carefully and consult an attorney who is versed in alcoholic beverage law, before moving forward with this sale.
