NASHVILLE – The head of the state’s Alcoholic Beverage Commission has backed off for now on his planned July 1 crackdown on establishments found “infusing” fruit or herbs into alcohol drinks.
ABC Director Keith Bell’s move came following a meeting with Nashville Convention and Visitors Bureau and Tennessee Hospitality Association members.
Restaurateurs had objected to Bell’s move, which he said was based on his interpretation of a 2006 state law.
Any number of bars and restaurants have turned to infusion
In an email, Bell defended the agency’s interpretation of the law, saying infused alcoholic beverages not for immediate consumption at bars and restaurants “remain violations of the Tennessee Code and TABC [commissionRules.”