Today the Senate Labor, Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee heard public testimony on Senate Bill 5029, legislation sponsored by Senator Jeanne Kohl-Welles that would establish a pilot project for wine and beer tasting at 10 farmers' markets across the state.

Wayne Bennett of Rockridge Orchards, Winery and Cidery in Enumclaw told the committee that SB 5029 would go a long way in promoting his local product to local customers.

“Our wines and ciders are very distinct from many other wines sold in grocery stores,” Bennett said. “We would love the opportunity to be able to introduce our unique flavors to the people of Seattle.”

Kohl-Welles, Chair of the Committee, along with other committee members, touted the bill’s objectives as a driver of local economic growth.

“This bill supports our wonderful wine and microbrew industries, as well as small farms in our state,” Kohl-Welles said. “When I go to farmers markets, I’m sometimes hesitant to buy a bottle of wine for more than $20 without knowing how it tastes. This bill would allow for the safe sampling of Washington’s unique wine and microbrew selection and would help these local industries better promote their product.”

There are currently over 150 farmers markets in state,with many offering wine and microbrews.