Among the bills ratified by Gov. Nikki Haley last week was the much-watched “Pint Bill” that allows beer breweries to increase the amount of alcohol they serve on their premises. The bill allows brewers to sell 48 ounces per customer within a 24-hour period. Previously, the law had allowed a maximum of 16 ounces offered only as 4-ounce samples.
Brewers had claimed the increase was necessary to capitalize on increased beer-related tourism and business in the region. Major craft beer companies recently expanded and moved to Asheville from California, shifting the geography of beer tourism.
Closer to home, recent years have brought several new breweries and beer stores to the Upstate. Thursday night, Barley’s Tap Room celebrated its designation as America’s “Most Arrogant Bar” by Oakland, Calif.-based Stone Brewing Company for the second year in a row. Management touted how Greenville served more Stone’s beer than 360 competitors did, including those in California.
The new law also says breweries must sell beer at prices comparable to retail prices elsewhere in the county, and that intoxicated persons be denied service. Brewers must also carry $1 million liability insurance.
