4301:1-1-32. Samples

(A) A manufacturer, supplier, or wholesale distributor of alcoholic beverages or their registered solicitor may distribute samples of their products to wholesale distributors, retail permit holders, or their employees, or may distribute samples of sacramental wine for religious rites to clergy. Products eligible to be distributed as samples include any products or vintages qualified for sale in Ohio. Products that are not qualified for sale in Ohio, but which have received federal label approval from the alcohol and tobacco tax and trade bureau of the United States department of the treasury, may be distributed as samples to wholesale distributors, but not to retail permit holders.

(B) Only employees of manufacturers, suppliers, or wholesale distributors who are registered solicitors, pursuant to Chapters 4301. and 4303. of the Revised Code and rule 4301-2-01 of the Administrative Code, may receive and distribute samples pursuant to this rule.

(C) Distribution.

(1) Registered solicitors may distribute samples either by providing a sealed container, not to exceed seven hundred fifty milliliters, or by providing servings of beer of not more than twelve ounces, wine and mixed beverages of not more than two ounces, or spirituous liquor of not more than one ounce, to determine by tasting only the quality and character of the product, and not for general consumption purposes.

(2) Products identified as samples may only be distributed during normal business hours at a permit premises. All such products shall be clearly marked "Sample."

(3) Registered solicitors may transport samples after they have been opened if the following conditions are met:

(a) The sample container is resealed with a type of lid, stopper, or seal appropriate for the container; and

(b) When in a motor vehicle, the sample container is not accessible from the driver's seat of the vehicle.

(D) Samples shall not be sold.

(E) Written records of the distribution of samples must be made available to the division of liquor control, upon request, for a period of one year from the date of the distribution.

Five Year Review (FYR) Dates: 07/20/2015 and 07/20/2020
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4301.03(B), 4301.03(D)
Rule Amplifies: 4301.03(D)
Prior Effective Dates: 11/1/85; 4/15/88; 1/31/91; 1/10/99; 4/6/01; 3/25/04

Prior History: (Effective: 03/16/2009
R.C. 119.032 review dates: 10/27/2008 and 03/16/2014
Promulgated Under: 119.03
Statutory Authority: 4301.03(B), 4301.03(D)
Rule Amplifies: 4301.03(D)
Prior Effective Dates: 11/1/85; 4/15/88; 1/31/91; 1/10/99; 4/6/01; 3/25/04 )