A United States federal appeals court has ruled that a longstanding prohibition on home distilling violates the Constitution, striking down regulations that have been in place for more than a century and a half.

The decision challenges federal restrictions that have prevented individuals from legally distilling spirits at home for personal consumption, similar to how home brewing of beer and winemaking are permitted under federal law.

The 158-year-old ban has its roots in Civil War-era revenue measures, when the federal government sought to control alcohol production for tax collection purposes. The restrictions remained in place even after Prohibition ended in 1933.

The ruling could have significant implications for home distilling enthusiasts and small-scale spirits production. However, the decision may face appeals to higher courts, and implementation details remain unclear.

Federal alcohol regulations are administered by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau, which has historically maintained strict controls over distillation activities outside of licensed commercial operations.