Legislation from state Senator Kim LaSata intended to close a loophole in a tasting room law has received a hearing in a Michigan Senate committee. LaSata says her bill “makes a small, but important change” to legislation approved in the last session to allow makers of wine, beer, and other spirits to sample and sell all of their offerings at the same location. LaSata says her adjustment would allow wineries, breweries, and distilleries to operate both an on-premises tasting room and an off-premises tasting room at the same location, under certain conditions. During committee testimony, Moersch Hospitality Group CEO Matt Moersch said his operation is one of a few in Michigan that makes wine, spirits, and beer. He said not being able to sell all of their craft beverages at their Coloma location, like they do at other locations licensed before the 2018 legislation, has prevented them from growing their business. LaSata’s bill remains in committee for further consideration.
