maryand re-corking law expected to increase wine sales

Wine lovers can rejoice. A new wine law has taken effect. Maryland diners who can't finish their bottle of wine can now take the bottle home with them. Restaurant officials must re-cork the unfinished bottle.

"We believe that this new law will encourage more customers to purchase wine by the bottle while simultaneously encouraging responsible drinking," said Melvin Thompson, vice president of government relations for the Restaurant Association of Maryland, in a statement. "Re-corking gives the customer the choice of finishing the wine at home instead of being forced to drink it or lose it."

Similar laws exist in at least 30 other states.

The unfinished bottle of wine is still considered an "open container" under Maryland law and can only be transported in a locked glove compartment of an automobile, cargo area or trunk.

Sen. Ida G. Ruben (D-Dist. 20) sponsored the Senate version of the legislation, while Del. Mary Ann Love (D-Dist. 32) sponsored the House version.