Vermont Could Get Higher Octane Beer if Gov. Douglas Signs Bill

The Vermont House and Senate have approved a bill that will allow specialty beers with an alcohol by volume above 8 percent to be sold in grocery and convenience stores.

Rep. John Rodgers sponsored the bill which would improve the distribution of the beers in Vermont. Currently, only the 75 liquor stores in the state can sell beer above 8 percent alcohol by volume. This has cut sales of the beers.

To become law, Gov. James Douglas must sign the bill. Otter Creek Brewing has indicated it plans to launch a new beer if the law in Vermont changes. Another brewer, Shaun Hill, says he plans to launch Hill Farmstead Brewery and focus on classic high gravity brewing styles.