Tasting Exemption

A tasting exemption (proeverijvrijstelling) is a temporary permit under the Alcohol Act (Alcoholwet) that allows you to serve alcoholic beverages at tastings without holding a full hospitality license. This is relevant for wine shops, breweries, distilleries, and food producers who want to offer tastings at their premises or during events.

The exemption is granted by the municipality and is limited to specific occasions, locations, and timeframes. You must apply in advance and comply with conditions such as maximum quantities served and the presence of a qualified supervisor. The exemption does not cover regular commercial alcohol service, which requires a separate hospitality license (drank- en horecavergunning).

Requirements

  • Purpose: The alcohol must be served for tasting or informational purposes, not for regular sale or consumption
  • Temporary nature: The exemption applies for a limited period, for example for a specific event
  • Location: The tasting must take place at a location approved by the municipality
  • Age verification: There must be age verification of participants (minimum 18 years)

Procedure

  • Application: Submit an application to the municipality in time, preferably a few weeks before the event
  • Provide information: Provide information about the event, location, expected number of visitors and duration
  • Assessment: The municipality assesses the application and may impose conditions
  • Grant: If approved, you will receive the tasting exemption
  • Conditions: Observe the conditions during the event, such as age verification and responsible alcohol service