Wine, Beer & Spirits

Attorneys in our Wine, Beer & Spirits practice are trusted advisors to clients in all sectors of the industry, from entrepreneurs and small craft brewers to large retailers and producers. Our team has a deep understanding of the complex legal and regulatory hurdles family-owned start-ups, wholesalers, retailers, and large corporations face. Our experienced, business-focused attorneys have guided restaurants, hotels, golf courses, county clubs, breweries, distilleries, and wineries through the challenges of formation, capitalization, financing, corporate governance, distribution, and franchising matters.

We provide solutions to clients when state and federal compliance agencies make inquiries or commence enforcement actions, and when intellectual property rights are threatened. As one of the country’s top law firms with multiple offices in both the U.S. and Canada, we have the breadth and depth to navigate myriad issues relating to the success of businesses associated with brewing, distilled spirits, and wine.

Our Experience

• State and Federal Licensing Requirements
• State Liquor Authority Enforcement
• Clearance of brands for company and product names
• Review and clearance of advertising copy and designs
• Consulting on product portfolios for maximum brand protection
• Interstate and international trade and shipping
• Marketing and advertising compliance, including  e-commerce and internet marketing
• Capitalization and financing
• Corporate formation and governance
• Real estate transactions, including for production and retail facilities, as well as vineyard leases and grape contracts
• Distribution agreements
• Contract negotiations, including commercial and vendor, as well as breach of contract claims

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