David And Goliath Conflict Settled In Trademark Dispute

Two Kentucky distilleries, one a “Kentucky Major” and one a craft-scale outfit, have settled a trademark dispute. Heaven Hill and Log Still Distilling, a family-owned-and-operated spirits company in Nelson County, Ky., have finalized a resolution of their dispute regarding the usage of the “J.W. Dant” trademark and its associated goodwill, which were purchased by Heaven Hill in 1993. Heaven Hill will continue to be the sole producer of J.W. Dant distilled spirits.

“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 resolution underscores our commitment to protecting our intellectual property and brand equity,” said Jessica Pendergrass, General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer for Heaven Hill. “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.”

Wally Dant, the founder of Log Still said, “The uniqueness of the bourbon industry is the collaborative work amongst 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 endeavors. “