Wisconsin has been open to winery to consumer direct shipping since 1988. However, a concerning omnibus liquor bill was forced through the legislature that had the potential to impose significant restrictions on DTC shipping into the state. The bill was unfortunately signed by the Governor on December 6, 2023.

While the sections impacting DTC shipments wouldn’t have become effective until early 2025, the restrictions included raise serious concerns. Wine Institute worked with the Secretary of the ABC to pass “fix-it” legislation in 2024 and we are happy to report that the common carrier provisions were resolved. Without this, both of the major common carriers have gone on record with the state saying they would have to stop shipping wines direct to consumers into the state due to the requirements of the new law. However, Wine Institute is still working to improve the fulfillment house provisions, as well as the requirement for an in-state agent for wineries.

There is continued work on the fulfillment house licensing and winery in-state agent issues which remain from that bill.

Stay tuned for more information on how you may be able to provide assistance as well.

Thank you,

Free the Grapes!