Full details in the main forum, but this is a pretty shitty move by Lagunitas against Sierra Nevada. Also, the claim being made about the stylization of the all-caps "IPA" on the packaging is very much a stretch. Others weighing in, but though the California-specific take on this could be a bit more informative.
If you want an informative take, consult a trademark attorney. The numerous threads about trademark litigation on beer forums over the past few years have shown that most beer geeks know jackshit about trademark law and are going to comment based on their relative affinity for a given brand and/or their belief in the obtuse idea of a "craft beer community," rather than provide any interesting analysis.
I am a trademark attorney, and even I stay the hell away from these threads. Too hard to explain sufficient to overcome the rabbles. Suffice to say, Lagunitas can afford attorneys who a) know what they're doing and b) do it well. And likely not the kind that are in the business of filing frivolous lawsuits and getting sanctioned.
i need a palate cleanser after hearing this news. preferably a Sierra Torpedo or Pale Ale because Lagunitas can suck my balls (that's my trademark analysis)
I'm sure the same can be said of Sierra, in regards to defending themselves If I was in Oakland I would go to the courthouse on the 20th and throw spent grains at the Lagunitas lawyers. Ok, I wouldn't, but that would be impressive if someone did http://www.brewbound.com/news/lagunitas-lawsuit-tries-halt-sierras-new-hop-hunter
Absolutely! That's why I say let these things play out in court. These forums can be tiring enough as is, ha.
Yup, story: http://thefullpint.com/beer-news/lagunitas-will-drop-suit-sierra-nevada-brewing-ipa-mark/ Insane they didn't see it playing out like that beforehand with the public, however. Seemed predictable.
@lagunitasT: Today, January 13th 2015, has been the worst day ever in 23 years of growing my brewery. Worst. Growing a biz involves defending a biz... Tough tough lesson to learn.
Fiscally you would imagine that the amount Lagunitas and SN probably would have settled for would still be far far less than what would be lost over time by black marking your brand amongst the public.
