Winston & Strawn Defeats Class Action Suit on Behalf of Maker’s Mark

On May 4, 2015, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida ruled in favor of Winston client Maker’s Mark and parent company Beam Suntory in a class action lawsuit. The ruling by U.S. District Judge Robert L. Hinkle dismissed the complaint of two Florida consumers who alleged the bourbon brand falsely marketed itself as “handmade.” The case was dismissed with prejudice.

Beam Suntory is the first to claim victory in a series of lawsuits filed over the past year against spirits and beer companies alleging that they falsely market their brands.

Amanda Groves, head of litigation for Winston’s Charlotte office, represented Maker’s Mark in this matter.