Wine growers across the region are set to benefit from the passing of a new government Bill.
The Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Winery Cellar Door Tasting) Amendment Bill has passed, meaning cellar door wineries are able to charge for wine tasting.
National MP for Kaikoura, Stuart Smith, introduced the Bill into Parliament in 2022 and it passed earlier this week.
Prior to the Bill being passed, wineries holding an "off-licence" were not allowed to charge a fee for wine tasting.
All wineries either hold an "on-licence", meaning wine sold with the intention of being consumed on the winery premises, or an "off-licence", meaning wine sold is sold with intention of being consumed off the premises.
Many cellar doors tend to hold "off-licences", as one of the requirements to having an "on-licence" is providing food, which many cellar doors do not have the facilities for.
Now, cellar doors which hold an "off-licence" are able to charge for tasting, as long as they have drinking water and snack food readily available, at reasonable prices. Recommended snacks include potato chips and pork crackling.
The sample size of each tasting is stated in the law as 35ml.
Mr Smith said by allowing wineries to charge for samples and simplifying licensing requirements, the law would help wineries to thrive.
"These changes will make a difference to the economic growth and development of New Zealand’s regions, and it is a welcome addition to the rural economy," he said.
"By cutting red tape, supporting responsible drinking and boosting our wine industry, we are making sure our wine regions continue to thrive and attract visitors from around the world
Cellar door manager at Wanaka’s Rippon Winery, Paddy Goodman, said the passing of the Bill would benefit wineries.
"With tasting, you are providing an experience which costs the company — wine isn’t free."
