How should a licensee handle a request for a beverage sample or complimentary drink?

• A. Verify ownership and license terms, and ensure samples comply with the Code and are within allowed limits.
• B. Provide unlimited samples to attract customers.
• C. Refuse any samples to avoid risk.
• D. Only offer samples to staff.

Answer: (A)

Handling requests for beverage samples or complimentary drinks hinges on ensuring you operate within the license and the Alcohol Beverage Code. The best approach is to verify ownership and license terms and ensure samples comply with the Code and are within allowed limits. This means confirming that the product is from a licensed source, that providing samples is permitted under your license, and that the amount and manner of sampling meet any per-person, per-event, or age-related requirements. Following these steps protects the licensee from penalties and supports responsible service while still allowing appropriate hospitality.

Providing unlimited samples would violate permissible limits and licensing terms, risking penalties. Refusing all samples ignores allowed hospitality and can be unnecessarily restrictive. Offering samples only to staff excludes patrons and runs counter to standard customer service and compliance practices.