What reporting requirements exist for a distillery when a significant loss of product occurs due to a natural disaster?

When a significant loss of product occurs at a distillery due to a natural disaster, specific reporting requirements to the TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) are triggered. The distillery must immediately notify the TTB of the loss. This initial notification should be made as soon as possible, typically by phone or email, to alert the TTB to the situation. Following the initial notification, the distillery must submit a detailed written report to the TTB. This report should include: the date and time of the natural disaster, a description of the event (e.g., flood, hurricane, earthquake), an estimate of the quantity and type of spirits lost or destroyed, the location of the loss, an explanation of the circumstances surrounding the loss, and any measures taken to prevent further loss or damage. The TTB may require the distiller to conduct a physical inventory to verify the amount of loss and reconcile their records. The distiller may also need to provide supporting documentation, such as photographs, insurance claims, or reports from local authorities. Example: If a hurricane causes a distillery's warehouse to flood, resulting in the loss of 10,000 gallons of bourbon, the distillery must notify the TTB immediately and then submit a written report detailing the event and the estimated loss. Furthermore, the distillery may need to apply for relief from tax liability for the lost spirits. This requires submitting a separate application to the TTB, providing evidence that the loss was due to a natural disaster and was not the result of negligence or intentional misconduct. The TTB will review the application and determine whether to grant relief from the excise taxes on the lost spirits. Failure to properly report the loss and apply for tax relief can result in penalties and fines.