About this episode

The episode discusses the implications of California's direct-to-consumer shipping privileges for craft distillers and the challenges faced by small producers in the alcohol industry.

Sponsored by The Mountain Air | Sponsored by Benny’s Pizza | SLOFreeParking Alex Villicana of RE:FIND Distillery and Aaron Bergh of Calwise Spirits join Adam for a local conversation with statewide consequences. California’s temporary direct-to-consumer shipping privileges for craft distillers are set to expire at the end of 2026, and both guests say losing them could be devastating for small, independent producers. Alex explains that direct shipping represents roughly 30 percent of his revenue and that losing it overnight could be a backbreaker. Aaron says many distillers now depend on shipped club packages and online orders for at least a quarter of their business. For these local producers, shipping is not simply a convenience. It has become part of how they remain viable. They break down California’s three-tier alcohol system, the power of major distributors, and the frustrating position small brands find themselves in. They can be too small to earn meaningful attention from the largest wholesalers, yet still be legally restricted from reaching customers on their own. Alex shares his experience with Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, including the unforgettable story of…

People in this episode

Host: Adam Montiel

Guests: Alex Villicana, Aaron Bergh

Topics covered

• craft distilling
• direct-to-consumer shipping
• California alcohol laws
• small business challenges
• distribution issues

Keywords

• craft distillers
• direct shipping
• California alcohol system
• small producers
• distribution challenges

Sponsors

The Mountain Air, Benny’s Pizza, SLOFreeParking

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: RE:FIND Distillery, Calwise Spirits, Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits, Reyes Beverage Group

Places: California

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