Florida’s SB 578: What You Need to Know About Legalizing Wine in ‘Recyclable’ Containers

Last year, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed legislation permitting the sale of larger wine bottles, lifting the previous restriction on commercial sales that capped bottle sizes at one gallon, except for reusable 5.16-gallon containers.

Recently, the Florida Senate approved a bill, SB 578, that seeks to further alter wine packaging laws by allowing producers to use recyclable kegs and other multi-use containers. This new legislation removes the requirement for containers to be solely reusable, making it easier for wineries to adopt environmentally friendly practices. The bill passed with overwhelming support, receiving a vote of 36 to 1.

The bill’s sponsor, Senator Tom Leek, highlighted that liners would be included in these containers, enabling them to be reused after they are emptied. A companion bill in the House, HB 6015, is also progressing and aims to address concerns about how reusable containers might affect the wine’s taste, as mentioned by its sponsor, Representative Vanessa Oliver.

Florida boasts around 35 wineries, predominantly located in regions like Tampa Bay, Jacksonville, and metro Orlando, and is known for producing Muscadine, hybrid grapes, and fruit wines suited to its warm climate.

For more information on the Florida bill SB 578, which allows wine in recyclable containers, you can visit the Florida Senate website.

About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!