This guidance clarifies the rules regarding alcoholic beverage sampling, which allows industry members to provide samples of alcoholic beverages to retailers for market research, education, product promotion, or flavor determination.
Requirements
Industry members may provide alcoholic beverages to a retailer for sampling only if the retailer has not purchased the brand from that industry member within the preceding 12 months. The following guidelines must be followed:
Quantity Limits per Calendar Year
- Alcoholic liquor: Up to 3 liters per brand
- Wine: Up to 3 liters per brand
- Beer or high alcoholic content beer: Up to 3 gallons per brand
Product Handling Requirements
- Alcoholic liquor, wine, beer, or high alcoholic content beer must be obtained from the appropriate wholesaler.
- Each container used for sampling must be clearly marked with the word "SAMPLE" without obscuring the original label.
Record-Keeping
Industry members must maintain records in compliance with 701—1003.16(123).
Compliance and Enforcement
Failure to adhere to Iowa's sampling regulations may result in administrative penalties, including civil fines, license suspension, or revocation. Industry members are encouraged to review their sampling practices to ensure compliance with state regulations.