AMBRU’s Plan to Win Designation for American Brandy and Rum
A Legacy Without Protection
American Brandy and Rum trace their roots to the 1600s—before bourbon. By 1735, Georgia colonists were distilling their own, defying British rum bans 40 years before independence. Yet there’s no legislative protection for them as official U.S. spirits, like bourbon has in 27 CFR Part 5. AMBRU aims to change that through TTB recognition, for distillers across the country. At House of Applejay in East Ellijay, GA, we are producing fine spirits, showing why this fight matters today. Here’s how legislation can help.
The Case for Designation Status
A 1964 Senate resolution named bourbon a “distinctive product of the United States.” It’s now a $8.6 billion industry, driving jobs and tourism in Kentucky. American Brandy and Rum deserve that recognition too. In East Ellijay, House of Applejay is producing fine spirits, while Georgia’s rum history—sugar cane, coastal stills—reaches back centuries. Designation status in 27 CFR Part 5 would set standards, provide tax breaks, and label them American-made. Consumers would know they’re buying true American spirits, just like they trust bourbon. This isn’t just about history—it’s about jobs for distillers from East Ellijay to California.
Legislative Ideas to Make It Happen
AMBRU has a clear path forward. Here’s what Congress and Georgia lawmakers can do:
1 Federal Resolution
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- What: A Senate or House resolution, like bourbon’s in 1964, calling American Brandy and Rum “distinctive U.S. products.”
- Who: Senator Jon Ossoff (D) or Rep. Andrew Clyde (R)—Ossoff for economic growth, Clyde for East Ellijay’s stake.
- Why: It signals the TTB to act on 27 CFR Part 5 and supports distillers nationwide. Bourbon’s resolution was quick; Georgia can lead this one faster.
2 TTB Rule Change
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- What: Update 27 CFR Part 5 to include “American Brandy” and “American Rum,” requiring them to be distilled and aged in the U.S., made from all-natural ingredients, and aged a minimum of 2 years in North American Oak barrels.
- Who: TTB’s Regulations and Rulings Division—we’ll soon reach out to Michael Hoover for guidance.
- Why: These standards protect small distillers from imports and let consumers know it’s U.S.-made. We’re preparing to submit a petition after receiving TTB’s advice.
3 Georgia State Backing
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- What: A state resolution or bill supporting AMBRU’s TTB effort, with tourism support through official distillery trails acknowledgment in Georgia.
- Who: State Sen. Steve Gooch (R)—his District 51 includes East Ellijay.
- Why: It shows TTB that Georgia stands behind this, benefiting distillers here and beyond. It could spark a “Georgia Brandy & Rum Trail,” like Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail.
Working with the TTB
We’re starting to engage with TTB’s Regulations and Rulings Division. Today, March 21, 2025, we reached out to Michael Hoover through their form (ttb.gov/contact/rrd) to request guidance on the designation process for brandy and rum. TTB’s process takes time—petitions, public input, then rulemaking. Bourbon’s designation wasn’t fast, but we’re committed to seeing this through. First, we need TTB’s advice; then, we’ll build broader support. Georgia lawmakers’ backing will help TTB take no
Where We Go From Here
House of Applejay in East Ellijay is producing fine spirits, showing why this fight matters today for distillers everywhere. Follow us on X (@AMBRUCampaign) for the latest—see our pinned tweet: “AMBRU’s on… Back us—GA’s driving this fight!” Legislation is the endgame, but it starts with support. Distillers, drinkers, lawmakers—reach out at ambru.org or X. Brandy and rum are U.S. spirits—time to make it official.
Caroline Porsiel
Founder, AMBRU Campaign & House Of Applejay Distillery