House approves narrower tasting rules to let distilleries offer limited on-site tastings

Representative Frower moved to uncircle and then presented the second substitute for House Bill 228, which would bring distilleries under tasting and on-site sale rules similar to wineries and breweries while imposing tighter limits on sample sizes and frequency.

"What second substitute House Bill 228 endeavors to do...is let distilleries in the state of Utah come under the same provisions that we currently allow wineries and breweries to operate under," Frower said, noting there are currently 12 operating distilleries in Utah.

Opponents including Representative Draxler warned the substitute "significantly opens up more distribution of alcohol," saying the change moves beyond tasting into broader sales. Draxler and others urged caution about any incremental liberalization of state alcohol control policy.

Sponsor Frower and supporting colleagues said the substitute actually constrains sampling relative to current winery/brewery practice by limiting portion sizes and restricting tastings to one per customer per business day, while clarifying that minors are barred from designated tasting areas and that a "variety of food" — not a full restaurant — must be available.

On the floor, lawmakers asked technical questions about whether the substitute affected existing educational tasting permits and whether off-premises licensing provisions were repealed; the sponsor said the substitute does not repeal the off-premises beer licensing authority and that DABC (Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control) retains authority to enforce distinct-area and warning-sign requirements.

The House voted to pass second substitute HB 228, 43 yes to 29 no, and the bill will be transmitted to the Senate.