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Heaven Hill settles JW Dant lawsuit
Log Still Distilling and Heaven Hill Brands have settled their legal dispute regarding the use of the ‘JW Dant’ trademark.
Heaven Hill Brands bought the ‘JW Dant’ trademark in 1993. The company filed a lawsuit against Log Still Distillery for trademark infringement by claiming on its website that it was “reviving the Dant legacy one barrel at a time”.
Now, both businesses have resolved the dispute, and a permanent injunction was agreed, approved and entered by the United States District Court on 31 July.
Jessica Pendergrass, general counsel and chief compliance officer for Heaven Hill, said: “Heaven Hill maintains a product portfolio of respected, historic brands with enduring legacies in the Kentucky Bourbon industry, and continuing that legacy is a priority for our business.
“This is a collegial industry built on strong relationships. We value Log Still as a partner in the distilling industry, and wish them continued success in their distilling ventures.”
Both companies noted the agreement showed Heaven Hill and Log Still Distilling value the importance of intellectual property rights.
Heaven Hill Brands will continue to be the sole producer of JW Dant spirits.
Wally Dant, founder of Log Still, added: “The uniqueness of the Bourbon industry is the collaborative work among distilleries.
“Heaven Hill and Log Still have worked together over the past few years on making a difference in the communities we live and work. That is what’s important for each of us.
“We are glad to resolve this dispute amicably and can now focus more time on developing our distinctive line of products and services.
“Making memories with family and friends is what our campus is all about. Sharing a good Bourbon among friends is simply the result of this resolution. We appreciate the efforts Heaven Hill has made as a fellow family-owned presence in this collective spirits industry and wish them the best in their endeavours.”
In 2021, The Spirits Business explored 10 of the biggest trademark disputes in recent years.
Last year, we spoke to Kate Latts and Allan Latts who took over as co-presidents of Heaven Hill Brands after Max Shapira moved into the new position of executive chairman.