This week I am sure you are aware of the current battle with the State of Washington and the possible raising and extending the beer tax. This is one of the most progressive and highest beer taxes proposed in the country. So I asked the brewers/breweries the following question and below are there answers. I got an overwhelming response so I am posting every reply I received.
The question – The Governors proposed plan is to Extend and Raise the Beer Tax here in WA State. How do you feel this proposal will affect your brewery?
Diamond Knot Brewing Company – 
We at DK are unequivocally opposed to the tax hike. Not only is it completely unfair to our industry but it could put out-of-state breweries at a distinct advantage over us. If Diamond Knot experienced zero growth over last year’s sales, this hike would cost us in excess of $40,000. Obviously that’s money we could use to hire add’l employees, buy equipment etc. Having our own pubs puts us in a slightly better position in that we ‘sell’ beer to ourselves and can avoid some of the cavalcade of markups, but our friends who distribute most/all of their beer will be hurt the worst.
See you in Oly tomorrow!
Pat Ringe – Chief Fermentation Officer
