HARTFORD – A proposal introduced by Rep. Mike Alberts (R-Woodstock) extending state liquor laws to Connecticut’s farm winery industry passed the House of Representatives May 18 as part of a larger legislative package.

Alberts’ concept would allow farm wineries to sell brandy made from fruit harvested on premises but distilled off premises. Farm wineries would be able to make a profit off their product and residents or tourists looking to try local brandies will bring additional traffic to communities that house such farms.

“Something as simple as this provision of this amendment, which is something that farm winery permittees can’t do today, will go a long way to make sure that our farm wineries can compete with other enterprises across the northeast,” Rep. Alberts said.

The bill, including his proposal, was approved by the Senate on May 6 and will now be sent to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.