If you’re thinking about starting a distillery in Pennsylvania, you’ll need to know about the limited distillery license. This license allows you to manufacture and sell up to 100,000 gallons of liquor per year.  The word “liquor” is defined as: 

“any alcoholic, spirituous, vinous, fermented or other alcoholic beverage, powdered alcohol, or combination of liquors and mixed liquor a part of which is spirituous, vinous, fermented or otherwise alcoholic, including all drinks or drinkable liquids, preparations or mixtures, and reused, recovered or redistilled denatured alcohol usable or taxable for beverage purposes which contain more than one-half of one per cent of alcohol by volume.”

Mixing liquor with other liquors, fruit juice, or any other mixture for resale to the public will require a limited distillery license.

Liquor Sales

The holder of the license can manufacture and sell bottled liquors produced on the licensed premises to the State, entities licensed by the State, and the public.  In addition, limited distilleries can sell, for on-premises consumption only, wine, beer, and other spirits produced by other Pennsylvania alcohol manufacturers.

Key Benefits

One of the key benefits of a limited distillery license is that it allows you to sell your spirits directly to consumers on your premises. This means you can offer tastings, tours, and retail sales, creating a unique and personalized experience for your customers.  Also, a limited distillery may sell its bottled products at up to five additional satellite locations other than the manufacturing premises with no bottling or production requirement at those locations. 

How to Apply

To obtain a limited distillery license, you must first apply to the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB). The application process requires you to provide detailed information about your business, including your proposed location, ownership structure, and product offerings. You’ll also need to pay a fee and provide documentation such as a lease agreement and federal licensing information.

Once your application is approved, you’ll need to comply with certain premises requirements. These include having a secure storage area for your liquor and ensuring that your distilling equipment meets safety and regulatory standards. You’ll also need to keep accurate records of your production and sales.

If you’re interested in applying for a limited distillery license in Pennsylvania, it’s important to work with an experienced liquor license attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can guide you through the application process, help you understand your legal rights and obligations, and ensure that your business is compliant with all applicable laws and regulations.

In conclusion, a limited distillery license in Pennsylvania can be a great opportunity for entrepreneurs and spirits enthusiasts alike. With the right legal guidance and compliance measures in place, you can create a successful and thriving business in the state’s vibrant craft beverage industry.