Beginning September 1, the Washington State Liquor Control Board (WSLCB) will implement a year-long spirits tasting pilot in 30 state, contract and tribal liquor stores statewide.

The WSLCB considered retail sales volume, locations, and appropriate in-store space for sampling as it selected the 30 pilot stores. Consideration was also given to traffic accident data and proximity to churches and schools.

The Ballard liquor store, located at 2840 NW Market St, has been selected as one of the thirty stores where customers can start sampling spirits.

The pilot was established by Engrossed Substitute House Bill 1202 during the 2011 legislative session and allows stores to offer one tasting event per week.

Tasting events will beheld either Fridays or Saturdays from 4:00- 6:00 p.m.

“We are excited to have this opportunity for our customers to taste new and interesting products in our stores,” said WSLCB Chair Sharon Foster. “With more than 1,100 spirits products available in state stores, customers can now enhance their product knowledge by trying something they may never have considered before and learn first-hand about the products from distillers’ representatives. ”

Pilot Details:
• The pilot will take place between September 1, 2011 and September 1, 2012.
• Sampling will be limited to ¼ oz with four samples maximum.
• Only product sponsors, such as a distiller representative, may serve samples.
• Servers must have Mandatory Alcohol Server Training (MAST) permit.

The enabling legislation was at the request of the Distillery Representatives Association of Washington (DRAW) as a way to introduce premium products to store customers.

"The spirits sampling pilot is a win for both consumers and producers,” said Carrie Tellefson of DRAW. “With so many products available, the tasting events offer consumers a valuable opportunity to taste spirits in a controlled environment, learn about new, premium products and provide valuable feedback for distillers."