Booze rules loosen up

Government regulations sometimes smother the alcoholic beverage industry, but one recent rule change is a breath of life for local rum entrepreneur Troy Roberts.

The change, which recently went into effect statewide, allows craft distillers to sell products, on a limited basis, in a retail setting. That activity had been banned for years, and any alterations were difficult, given how influential the alcohol distributor and liquor store lobby is in Tallahassee. But State Rep. Greg Steube, R-Bradenton, helped pass a law this year that relaxed the rules.

Roberts, founder of Sarasota-based Drum Circle Distilling, makers of Siesta Key Rum, pounced on the changes. He opened a gift shop/tasting room inside the facility, and has begun to sell products and give tours. He held a grand opening of the retail operation Nov. 2 attended by more than 400 people.