Direct Shipping of Wine to Texas Consumers

Updated September 1, 2009

There have been many changes in direct wine shipping regulations over the last few years due to both litigation as well statutory changes.

The current regulations regarding wine shipping differ depending on the type of permit held by the shipper. See below for regulations for various permit types.

Any wine being shipped into or out of Texas, or transported through Texas, must be transported by a TABC-licensed common carrier.

Wine may be delivered to any location in Texas, wet or dry.

Texas Wineries

• New Wine Shipping Law – September 1, 2009
• Sec. 16.09. Direct Shipment To Consumers

Out-of-State Wineries

• New Wine Shipping Law – September 1, 2009
• Supreme Court Ruling Regarding Wine Shipping - May 16, 2005
• New Wine Shipping Law Goes into Effect - May 9, 2005

Texas Package Stores and Wine Only Package Stores

• Governor Signs Bill Regarding Shipping by Package Stores - May 25, 2007

Out-of-State Retailers

• Siesta Village / Wine Country Gift Baskets Ruling - January 14, 2008

Wholesalers (Texas and Out-of-State)

Under current state law, wholesalers / distributors are not authorized to ship wine directly to consumers in Texas.

Foreign Wineries

Under current state law, wineries located outside of the United States are not authorized to ship wine directly to consumers in Texas.

Interstate Shipping (Shipping Wine Into States Other Than Texas)

• Wine Institute

The commission is more than happy to answer further questions about Texas state laws regarding wine shipping. Please direct your inquiry to questions@tabc.state.tx.us.