No Cold Beer in Indiana – A Chilling Law
If you’re in Indiana and want to grab a cold beer from a grocery store or gas station, you’re out of luck. Since the Prohibition era, Indiana has enforced a law that only liquor stores can sell refrigerated beer, while grocery stores and convenience stores are limited to selling warm beer.
Why Was This Law Created?
The law was originally meant to regulate alcohol sales and prevent excessive drinking by making beer less convenient to consume immediately. Liquor store owners also argued that allowing grocery stores to sell cold beer would hurt their businesses.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Yes! Restaurants, bars, and breweries can serve cold beer, and liquor stores can sell it chilled. But if you’re shopping at a grocery store, expect to take your beer home warm and cool it yourself.
What Happens If a Store Breaks the Rule?
Grocery stores caught selling cold beer can face hefty fines and even lose their alcohol license. Despite multiple legal challenges, courts have upheld the law time and time again.
Final Thoughts
Indiana’s cold beer ban may seem outdated, but it remains in place as a unique part of the state’s alcohol laws. So if you’re in Indiana, plan ahead and make sure you have ice ready!
