Legislature broadens distribution of specialty beer

MONTPELIER, Vt.—Beer lovers are cheering passage of bill that will allow stronger beer to be sold in stores across Vermont.

The specialty beers -- with an alcohol contest of more than 8 percent -- are now only available in liquor stores. The bill, which was passed by the Vermont House last year and the Senate this week, would allow the beer to be sold at grocery and convenience stores statewide.

Morgan Wolaver, the owner of Otter Creek Brewery in Middlebury, says now only 30 to 40 percent of the state's 75 liquor stores carry the specialty beers.

He says he plans to launch a stronger brew after Gov. Jim Douglas signs the legislation loosening the distribution restrictions.

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Information from: The Times Argus, http://www.timesargus.com/