H.B. No. 5397 amends the Alcoholic Beverage Code to authorize holders of out-of-state winery direct shipper's permits to conduct wine sampling or tasting events at various locations, such as civic festivals and farmers' markets. The bill introduces new provisions that allow these permit holders to sell and deliver wine to consumers in Texas, dispense free wine for consumption at events, and collect entrance fees. Additionally, it specifies that the wine served at these events must be produced or bottled by the permit holder, and sample portions are limited to one ounce.

The bill also outlines regulations regarding the transportation of wine to event premises and emphasizes that samples cannot be removed from the event location. The financial responsibility for the wine provided during these tastings falls on the permit holder. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission is granted the authority to adopt rules for implementing these new provisions. The act is set to take effect on September 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Alcoholic Beverage Code 54.01 (Alcoholic Beverage Code 54)