Choice for Maryland drinkers
Choice for Maryland drinkers
Monday, January 11, 2010;
A14
The Dec. 24 editorial "No sale"
reflected a poor understanding of the history and purpose of America's
alcoholic beverage distribution system. The deregulation espoused would
come at the expense of that system, which has created the safest, most
vibrant and innovative marketplace for alcoholic beverages in the
world.
Perhaps the most troubling assertion was that "through an antiquated
regime known as the three-tiered system, producers, wholesalers and
retailers act in cahoots to stymie consumers and limit selection by
banning direct shipments from wineries to Marylanders' homes."
To set the record straight: Wine and spirits wholesaler-distributors
bring tens of thousands of brands and varieties of wine and spirits
from all over the world to local bars, restaurants, hotels and package
stores. Maryland consumers have more variety at their fingertips than
consumers in any country outside the United States. The editorial also
belittled the industry's concerns about underage access, yet tacitly
acknowledged that minors do use direct shipping via the Internet to buy
alcohol.
Alcohol is different; it's not books, CDs or clothing. It should --
and must -- be treated differently, and the three-tier approach is the
safest, most accountable distribution system because at the end of the
chain, the purchase takes place face to face, and a licensed retailer
can determine the purchaser's age.
Craig Wolf, Washington
The writer is president and chief executive of the Wine and Spirits Wholesalers of America.