NC H178

Allows permit holders (distillery permit holders, distiller broker representatives, and distiller representatives) to conduct consumer tasting events at ABC stores with local board approval.

Limits each consumer to one-quarter ounce tasting samples per product with a maximum of one-half ounce total per calendar day, and restricts tastings to 1:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for up to three hours.

Requires spirituous liquor to be poured only by employees age 21+ or the permit holder themselves, prohibits serving visibly intoxicated or underage consumers, and prohibits charging consumers for samples.

Restricts consumer tasting events to municipalities that have approved the sale of mixed beverages and limits local boards to no more than three tasting events per calendar week with no more than two different permit holders conducting events simultaneously.

Requires permit holders to provide 48 hours written notice to the ABC Commission before each event and maintain records for at least one year, and modifies G.S. 18B-301 to allow consumption at ABC stores during authorized tasting events.