Villapudua Authors Bill to Legalize the use of Personal Wine Containers

SACRAMENTO – Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton) recently introduced Assembly Bill 239, which would allow licensed winegrowers to fill their customers personal, refillable wine containers at wineries and tasting rooms.

“Taking this next step will help to expand business opportunities for family wineries, reduce consumer waste, and bring parity to our marketplace,” said Assemblymember Villapudua. “While existing law allows for breweries to sell their product in this manner, it’s time we offer the same opportunity to the winegrowers of California.”

Many Californians regularly visit local breweries to refill their “growlers” with beer, but are unable to refill their personal containers when visiting their local winery or tasting room. Providing this as an option to customers will help further advance the sustainable practices of the wine industry. Refilling a single-reusable wine keg would save 39 glass bottles.

During the current public health crisis, the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control has temporarily lifted restrictions on the use of these personal, reusable wine containers to provide a form of financial relief for local winegrowers. It is time to offer this as a permanent opportunity for them.

Learn more about AB 239 here.