VESTAL, N.Y. – New York State lawmakers are considering the repeal of regulations that prohibit grocery stores from selling wine. This potential change would allow local grocery chains, including Weis Markets and Price Chopper, to offer wine alongside their usual grocery items.

Senator Liz Krueger has introduced a law aimed at making wine purchasing more convenient and increasing visibility for New York wineries. However, Mark Darpino, owner of Vestal Wine and Liquor, expressed concerns that such a law would significantly harm small, locally owned liquor stores. Darpino, who has been in the liquor business for nearly 35 years, believes the introduction of wine sales in grocery stores could be detrimental, particularly since wine accounts for a substantial portion of his business’s revenue.

He reported a 10% decline in sales, attributing it to changing drinking habits among younger consumers. Darpino further argues that many smaller wineries may never have their products featured in large grocery chains, as those stores typically prioritize more popular brands.

The proposed legislation specifies that the changes would only allow for wine sales in grocery stores, leaving hard liquor sales confined to liquor stores. The bill notes that liquor stores in states like Florida continue to thrive despite grocery store wine sales.

Darpino’s son, Ean, worried about the long-term implications of the bill. He fears that allowing grocery stores to sell wine could lead to a future where liquor sales also migrate to supermarkets, resulting in job losses and diminishing opportunities for small businesses.

Currently, State Senate Bill S1279A is awaiting discussion in the New York State Senate.