Colorado Self Distribution Laws for Craft Brewers

Colorado self distribution laws permit craft brewers to self distribute beer that they manufacture.  To do so Colorado craft brewers are required to first obtain a Colorado wholesaler’s license: “Brewers or winers licensed under this section may solicit business directly from licensed retail persons or consumers by procuring a wholesaler’s license as provided in this article … C.R.S. 12-47-402(b).”

The Colorado wholesaler’s license is tied to the Colorado manufacturer’s license and a Colorado craft brewery will necessarily need to obtain its manufacturing license first.  This can be, and often is, done at the same time.  Additionally, the craft brewery will need to have separately licensed premises where the beer will be placed and inventoried for tax collection:

… any malt liquor sold at wholesale by a brewer that has procured a wholesaler’s license shall be unloaded and placed in the physical possession of a licensed wholesaler at the wholesaler’s licensed premises in this state and inventoried for purposes of tax collection prior to delivery to a retailer or consumer. C.R.S. 12-47-402(b).

Thus, a Colorado craft brewer who intends to self-distribute will need to have a specific area designated or leased for purposes of the wholesaler’s license.  Additionally, a Colorado craft brewery that intends to have an offsite tap room can do so through its wholesaler’s license.

Colorado Brewery Lawyers of LaszloLaw

Our Colorado brewery lawyers are ready to assist in obtaining a Colorado manufacture’s license and Colorado wholesaler’s license .  Whether you need to transfer, modify, or obtain a new liquor license, our beverage attorneys will start by addressing your needs and continue to provide guidance along the way.  Your goals and bottom line are our priority. Contact the Colorado beverage lawyers at LaszloLaw today to discuss your Colorado liquor license needs.