For decades, the Robinson-Patman Act has been something of a sleeping giant in U.S. competition law. Enacted in 1936 to address concerns that large retail chains were receiving preferential pricing that put smaller businesses at a competitive disadvantage, the law
On Reserve: A Wine Law Blog
On Reserve: A Wine Law Blog, published by Lindsey A. Zahn, focuses on legal and regulatory issues affecting the alcohol beverage industry, particularly wine and related products. The blog covers topics such as federal and state compliance requirements, labeling and advertising regulations, direct-to-consumer shipping laws, and the evolving market for non-alcoholic and low-alcohol beverages. It also addresses enforcement trends, licensing, import/export considerations, and the impact of government actions on the industry. The blog provides insights into specific cases, regulatory updates, and practical guidance for producers, importers, distributors, and brand owners navigating the complex legal landscape of alcohol law.
Blog Authors
Latest from On Reserve: A Wine Law Blog
Non-Alcoholic Beverage Compliance: Not as Straightforward as You’d Think
I recently joined MHW for Episode 57 of their podcast, “The Surprisingly Non-Straightforward World of Non-Alcoholic Beverage Compliance.”
In the episode, we discuss why non-alcoholic wine, beer, and spirit alternatives can be trickier to navigate than their alcoholic counterparts.…
Can Cider, Mead, and Fruit Wine Use Vintage Dates? A Lawsuit Challenges TTB’s Labeling Rules
For wineries and other producers, a vintage date can communicate important information about a product’s agricultural origins. Wine consumers are accustomed to seeing a year on a bottle and understanding it as an indication of the year in which the…
2026 Mid-Year Wine Law Update: Five Legal Developments Every Winery and Wine Brand Should Be Watching
The wine industry continues to navigate a rapidly evolving legal and regulatory landscape. In addition to changing consumer preferences and economic pressures, wineries, importers, distributors, and wine brands must stay informed about developments that may affect their operations, labeling,…
TTB Recommends Delaying Submission of 2026 Q1 CBMA Importer Refund Claims
Due to a known data transmission issue between U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) and the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (“TTB”), certain first quarter 2026 import data displayed in the myTTB CBMA Importer Claims System may reflect…
Lindsey Zahn on the Sustainable Winegrowing Podcast: Legal Essentials Every Wine Brand and Winery Should Know
In Episode 295: “Wine Law Essentials: Contracts, TTB, Social Media & More,” we dive into some of the most common legal pitfalls that wine brands and wineries encounter and how to avoid them. We covered the critical importance of well-crafted…
New York Expands Opportunities for Craft Beverage Producers with New Law
According to MidHudson News, New York State has taken a major step to support craft beverage entrepreneurs with the recent signing of legislation creating an alcohol brand owner’s license. This new law allows brand owners who do not produce…
2025 Year in Review: Key Legal Trends in the Alcohol Beverage Industry
As 2025 comes to a close, it’s a good time to reflect on the key legal trends shaping the alcohol beverage industry this year. From regulatory updates to emerging market shifts, the past twelve months have underscored the importance of…
A Conversation on Pommeau: Lindsey Zahn Featured on Cider Chat with Ria Windcaller
I am excited to share that I recently joined Ria Windcaller on the renowned Cider Chat podcast for a deep and engaging conversation about Pommeau, its history, and how U.S. producers are increasingly exploring this traditional French beverage. The episode,…
Seven Things You Didn’t Know About Non-Alcoholic Products from a Compliance Perspective
Non-alcoholic beverages are not just having a moment—they have become a movement. From spirit alternatives to dealcoholized wines to near beers to mocktails, the “NA” space is booming. But while many assume non-alcoholic means simple, the regulatory reality is far…