AUGUSTA, Maine (AP) — Maine consumers will soon be able to sample liquor at tasting events held at liquor stores.

An
industry group says Gov. John Baldacci signed legislation Monday that
authorizes an agency liquor store to conduct up to 12 pre-planned
tasting events a year, each with a limit of 1.5 ounces per person.

Vice
President David Wojnar of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United
States noted that 43 other states, including the other five in New
England, now allow some form of liquor tasting.

Wojnar said tastings give consumers a chance to sample spirits, as they would wines, before making a purchase.

The law takes effect Aug. 17.