December 31, 2017. 13809. Reduced rate of excise tax on certain distilled spirits (a) In general Section 5001 is amended by redesignating subsection (c) as subsection (d) and by inserting after subsection (b) the following new subsection: (c) Reduced rate for 2018 and 2019 (1) In general In the case of a distilled spirits operation, the otherwise applicable tax rate under subsection (a)(1) shall be— (A) $2.70 per proof gallon on the first 100,000 proof gallons of distilled spirits, and (B) $13.34 per proof gallon on the first 22,130,000 of proof gallons of distilled spirits to which subparagraph (A) does not apply, which have been distilled or processed by such operation and removed during the calendar year for consumption or sale, or which have been imported by the importer into the United States during the calendar year. (2) Controlled groups (A) In general In the case of a controlled group, the proof gallon quantities specified under subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (1) shall be applied to such group and apportioned among the members of such group in such manner as the Secretary or their delegate shall by regulations prescribe. (B) Definition For purposes of subparagraph (A), the term controlled group shall have the meaning given such term by subsection (a) of section 1563, except that more than 50 percent shall be substituted for at least 80 percent each place it appears in such subsection. (C) Rules for non-corporations Under regulations prescribed by the Secretary, principles similar to the principles of subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall be applied to a group under common control where one or more of the persons is not a corporation. (D) Single taxpayer Pursuant to rules issued by the Secretary, two or more entities (whether or not under common control) that produce distilled spirits marketed under a similar brand, license, franchise, or other arrangement shall be treated as a single taxpayer for purposes of the application of this subsection. (3) Termination This subsection shall not apply to