Posted By Jason on December 11, 2009

I fancy myself a liberal democrat (i.e. I trust the government to  help it’s citizenry). While I still hold these beliefs, I am so disappointed with my first involvement with government bureaucracy (The Trade and Tobacco Bureau). These ‘fine’ folks are responsible for licensing, regulating and taxing alcohol and tobacco. It seems simple, right? A new brewery applies for a license, they submit all appropriate documentation and fees, then you investigate and give them a license. If only it were that simple! There are mountains of red tape that are stronger than steel, there are government workers who take every other week off (seriously every other f*ing week) and there are ridiculous rings that must be jumped through that make absolutely no sense.

On the other hand, I expected the same struggle with the PA Liquor Control Board. They were very timely and efficient and the process was much simpler (much more expensive as well -$2125 to file for a license-not including annual fees). We met with our ‘handler’ once, at the brewery, told him what a mash tun was, and submitted our paperwork and were on our way.

Long story short- We will have beer on the market. Our ‘Belfast Black’ smoked porter is carbonating right now and will be hitting the streets next week. This batch will be draft only because the Fed’s also insist on pre-approving all the beer labels (which takes a long time as well).

Speaking of draft, we collaborated with local metal smith Bob Jensen who created our tap handles. The great thing about local artists is there are no pre-conceived notions about what a tap handle should look like. I think you’ll all be pleasantly surprised to see this beautiful hand-made piece of art in your favorite beer bar.

 

Slainte

Jason Lavery

Lavery Brewing Co

laverybrewing.com

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