Cuomo moves to expand craft beverages

ALBANY--Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced Monday, June 12 that applications are now being accepted for the operation of custom craft beverage production centers to provide space and equipment to those looking to produce beer, wine, or cider for home consumption. The State Liquor Authority, the agency overseeing the application process, will provide new licenses to facilitate the production of homemade beer, wine and cider. Licenses are available to both current craft manufacturers seeking to establish a secondary business at their current location, or businesses seeking to open a standalone custom homemade craft beverage production center.
"This new license provides greater opportunity for New Yorkers to make their own beer, wine or cider, while helping to strengthen an already booming craft beverage industry," Cuomo said. "This win-win-win makes it easier for hobby brewers, vintners and cider makers to hone their craft, while offering beverage manufacturers a new source of revenue that in turn helps New York farms succeed and thrive."
On Nov. 14, 2016, Cuomo signed legislation creating the new license authorizing the creation of custom craft production centers where craft beverage enthusiasts, hobbyists and other amateur brewers, vintners and cider makers can use the expertise, space and equipment of existing facilities to produce craft beverages for personal consumption.
New York's craft beverage industry is one of the fastest growing in the nation; however, in urban and suburban areas, residents often cannot afford or do not have access to the appropriate space or equipment to manufacture products at home. In addition to providing space and lowering the overhead costs, the new custom production centers will also increase demand for locally grown ingredients, generate revenue for New York's small craft manufacturers and provide expert hands-on training for hobbyists and those exploring joining the growing ranks of craft producers across New York state.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, "This new license is another exciting way that we can continue to grow the craft beverage industry and increase demand for locally grown products in New York State. New York has some of the best and brightest minds and this new legislation signed by Governor Cuomo is a win-win for our entrepreneurs and our consumers. It allows our beverage manufacturers to bring in new business by sharing their space and expertise and it opens up new doors for those who want to learn the skill of making beer, wine or cider."