Just in time for leaf peeper season, apple picker weekends, and the holidays, the Governor of New York has signed a landmark bill that will benefit New York’s small spirits, cider, and mead producers. Now, if you spot a small batch at a New York distillery or brewery, you can ship it to your friends and yourself.

This new legislation will allow New York liquor and cider producers to ship their unique products directly to consumers in New York and beyond state lines. This opens up a new way to distribute these unique products without the producers having to find a distributor to do it for them.

Governor Hochul signs shipping bill for New York artisans

According to a press release earlier this week announcing the signing of this bill, New York is home to the most craft cider producers in the country. I don’t find this surprising since we have so many wonderful local producers helping to provide the product.

In signing this bill, Governor Hochul also stated:

“New York’s craft producers create distinctive, world-class products that deserve a wider audience. This legislation levels the playing field and allows these small producers to enter new markets and drive economic growth across the state. With this new law, we are ensuring that New York remains a national leader in craft beverages and continues to support our local businesses, tourism and agriculture.” (via press release dated August 19, 2024)

See also: New York distillery wins double gold in San Francisco, California

During the COVID-19 pandemic, New York producers of sports ciders and hard ciders were granted a temporary direct sales privilege, but it expired when the COVID pandemic ended. It may have taken a few years since COVID for this to come back on the table, but here it is, and just in time for you to be able to send your favorite New York spirits, ciders, and meads direct from the producer to all your friends for the holidays. This law goes into effect in 90 days.