Legislation to guide the introduction of licensed distilleries on the island has been tabled in the House of Assembly

The Distilleries Licensing Act 2023 proposes the creation of a licensing regime for the operation of a distillery and the sale and supply of locally distilled spirits.

The legislation would create both a $1,250 distillery licence, for small-scale production, and a $8,000 commercial distillery licence for larger scale production.

Both licences last a year and would be available through the Liquor Licensing Authority. However, the renewal fee for the commercial licence would be $4,000 rather than $8,000.

Under the rules, stills could only be used by a licensed distiller in a distillery and it would be an offence to use or sell a still without a licence.

The Bill also creates a “transitional” three-month period for those who are already distilling spirits for sale or supply to apply for a relevant licence.

Any spirits produced or distilled contrary to the Bill can be seized and forfeited under the legislation, while it will also be an offence to buy, remove or receive any “wort, low wines or spirits” known to be made in contravention of the Act.

Fines under the legislation range from $1,000 for failing to notify authorities of a change of address to $12,000 for the importation or delivery of immature spirits.