Pa. uncorks nation’s first wine ‘kiosks’

0 Comments | The Virginian-Pilot and The Ledger-Star, Norfolk, VA, Jul 9, 2010 | by KATHY MATHESON

By Kathy Matheson

The Associated Press

HARRISBURG, Pa.

Swipe your driver’s license, look into the camera, blow into the breath sensor and – voila! – you have permission to buy a bottle of wine from a vending machine.

Pennsylvania recently introduced the country’s first wine “kiosks.” If the machines succeed in their test run inside two grocery stores, the state Liquor Control Board could place the high- tech alcohol automats in about 100 others.

The vending machines are a testament to the wonder of technology and the obscurity of Pennsylvania’s complicated liquor laws.

Currently, individuals can buy wine and liquor for home consumption only in state-owned stores staffed by public employees. Private beer distributors sell cases and kegs only. Licensed corner stores, delis, bars and restaurants can sell beer to go, but only up to two six-packs per customer.

The liquor board has tried to be more consumer-friendly in recent years, including opening 19 full-service state stores in supermarkets.

Craig Wolf, president and CEO of the Wine & Spirits Wholesalers of America, questioned the machines’ efficacy in preventing sales to minors.

Conshohocken-based Simple Brands provides the kiosks free in exchange for the ability to sell ads on attached flat-screen monitors