Bitter Beer Face: Are Beer Conglomerates Violating New York Consumer Protection Laws?

This Article examines the potential legal implications under New York consumer protection laws of the growth in the beer industry: specifically, the battle between the craft beer industry and its large corporate competitors over labeling and advertising. This Article proceeds in four Parts: Part II summarizes the growth and consolidation of the craft beer industry; Part III explains federal regulation of beer labeling; Part IV explains New York State's regulation of beer labeling; and Part V examines the application of New York consumer protection laws to the labeling practices of the beer industry. This Article concludes with the determination that while the actions of certain breweries potentially violate New York law, private enforcement is challenging.