On February 20, 2026, in a victory for American beer, wine, and spirits importers, the Supreme Court in Learning Resources, Inc. v. Trump, 607 US ____, Slip Op., February 20, 2026 (“Learning Resources”) struck down President Trump’s imposition of tariffs under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (“IEEPA”). The Trump administration had used IEEPA to justify certain tariffs imposed on imported goods from various countries in 2025, including beer, wine and spirits. Despite the decision in the importers’ favor, no one is popping the Champagne quite yet. First, while the Court’s opinion invalidated the Trump administration’s IEEPA tariffs, it has no effect on the administrations’ ability to rely on other statutes to impose tariffs. Second, on the same day that the Supreme Court issued its decision, the President issued a proclamation imposing a 10% worldwide tariff under a different federal law (discussed in more detail belo

Alcohol beverage importers may finally get their answer from the United States Supreme Court this week on the validity of the Trump Administration’s tariffs issued pursuant to the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA).[1] Recent news reports suggest that the Court’s answer may come as early as this Friday, when the Court is scheduled to issue opinions on pending cases. Based on the questions posed by both liberal and conservative justices during oral argument, many commentators expect the Court to conclude that the president exceeded his authority by invoking IEEPA to issue those tariffs.   There are, however, a lot of open questions beyond just the validity of the tariffs. Most importantly, if the Court finds the tariffs are invalid, will importers that have already paid the tariffs be entitled to refunds and what will the process be for getting those refunds. Questions also remain as to whether the case will be remanded to a lower court to determine the

Continuing a Legacy of Learning Vineyard Team proudly announces the selection of six new exceptional recipients of the Juan Nevarez Memorial Scholarship, continuing its mission of investing in higher education for the children of California's vineyard and winery workers. These students are set to embark on a transformative journey. This year's recipients, all first-generation college students, have been chosen for their academic achievements, financial need, inspiring stories, community involvement, and the potential to make significant contributions to their communities . Among them are a future viticulturist with a commitment to sustainable agriculture, a budding real estate developer with aspirations of owning their own farm one day, and a prospective legislator/politician, passionate about public policy and social justice. Congratulations to This Year’s Recipients: Daisy from Paso Robles, planning to attend California Polytechnic State University. David from Paso Ro

Tennessee Sues Out-of-State Retailers: Frivolous or Far-Reaching?

In July, Tennessee attorney general Jonathan Skrmetti filed a federal lawsuit against six out-of-state retailers, claiming they illegally shipped alcohol into the state.  By Jeff Siegel   The Tennessee attorney […]

Afternoon Brief, July 20th

LA Police Hunt Wine Shop Thieves After Major Heist: A Los Angeles fine wine retailer targeted by thieves, who sawed through the roof of its cellar room and stole precious bottles thought to be worth at least $500,000, has said a police investigation was ongoing and thanked customers for their support...

ROHNERT PARK, CA. (May 23, 2023) - Sonoma State University's (SSU) Wine Business Institute (WBI) announces its summer 2023 offerings of wine business certificates and courses. Designed to foster success in the dynamic wine industry, these programs offer comprehensive insights into various facets of wine business, including marketing, sales, finance, and production. Courses are accessible online globally, taught by industry experts, and include hands-on learning and networking opportunities. They can be taken individually or towards certificate completion. Wine Business Management Certificate: 'DTC Marketing & eCommerce for the Wine Industry' (May 25-July 20, 2023), taught by Ben Kraemer, dives into Direct-to-Consumer marketing, eCommerce, and digital channels to promote wine sales and customer loyalty. Wine Business Management Certificate: 'Foundation in Wine Business Management' (June 14-July 12, 2023), led by winemaker Mike Kush, explores fundamentals

Afternoon Brief, August 24th

Thompson Honors Julia and Katie Jackson as 2023 Sonoma County Climate Crisis Champions: Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) announced Julia and Katie Jackson as the 2023 Sonoma County Climate Crisis Champions for California’s Fourth District. Rep. Thompson’s Climate Crisis Champions demonstrate significant efforts to protect the environment in our community and combat the ongoing climate crisis...

What Could be the Impact on Your Business? Is an arbitration agreement that purports to waive the right to bring a Private Attorneys General Act (PAGA) claim unenforceable under California law, as the California Supreme Court held years ago in Iskanian v. CLS Transportation Los Angeles, LLC, 59 Cal.4th 348 (2014); or does the Federal Arbitration Act (FAA), which favors enforcing bilateral arbitration agreements according to their terms, preempt California law, invalidating Iskanian?   This is the question posed by Viking River Cruises, Inc. v. Moriana, Case No. 20-1573, which came before the U.S. Supreme Court for oral argument on March 30, 2022.  A decision is expected within the next few weeks or about two months from the argument date.  Case Analysis The petitioner in  Viking River Cruises argued that the  Iskanian rule is preempted by the FAA, relying on a line of Supreme Court precedents, most notably AT&T Mobility LLC v. Concepcion, 563 U.S. 333

Inspire: A Celebration of Women in Wine

 Monument for women’s contributions and achievements to the wine industry April 8, 2022, Napa, CA — Renowned artist Mario Chiodo, in collaboration with Yountville Mayor John Dunbar, has announced the […]