Microdistilleries in NY State

[Kelly]

States Hope Hard Liquor Will Help Fix Their Economies

New York governor Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law that lets microdistillers sell their wares at farmer’s markets and fairs, something both microbreweries and wineries are already allowed to do. It’s only the latest in a series of initiatives states have undertaken in recent months that make it easier for craft distilleries to set up shop.

Read more: Microdistilleries Growing in Popularity in New York, Other States | TIME.com http://business.time.com/2012/10/15/sta ... z2kNUgRrHF

I saw this new law being embraced by a microdistiller in Saratoga Springs. Anyone else seen hard liquor being sampled and sold at farmers' markets yet? I have no idea if there even are microdistillers around Rochester . . .

[Brenda]

We have several down in this area. I don't think that they are present at the farmers' markets, but I do know that they attend certain events (Cork & Fork, FLCB harvest dinner, etc.).

[Kelly]

You may start seeing them pop up at the markets. The law just took effect 3 weeks ago. Keep us posted.

[Brenda]

That was the point of the article, wasn't it? My brain has gone into hibernation...

[Kelly]

Ha ha! It's ok. Any comments or discussion in this area of the boards makes me happy.

I think the new law is probably a good thing. Though I know little about this type of beverage, I was impressed with the "earthy" packaging and display I saw in Saratoga and got a bit of an education from the distiller. If you head to the Ithaca Farmers' Market or elsewhere around those parts, Brenda, please do let us know if you come across any!

[Brenda]

What I love about both Myer Farm Distillers (who I've known forever--our grandmothers were friends) and Finger Lakes Distilling (who aren't locals but we still adore them) is that they both use local organic fruits/grains or local grapes in all of their products.