A new bill in Albany could let grocery stores sell only New York-made wines, aiming to boost local vineyards while sidestepping long-standing opposition from liquor store owners.
Sen. George Borrello says the plan would give local wineries a much-needed edge in a market dominated by cheaper, mass-produced imports. He sees it as a compromise: expanding access for consumers without crushing small liquor stores, which have fought similar efforts for over a decade.
The bill faces legal questions tied to interstate commerce rules, but Borrello believes it could reignite stalled talks. He’s also pushing a second measure allowing liquor stores to sell snacks, giving them a new way to compete.
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