Can You Host That Wedding? Legal Pitfalls in Winery Event Contracts and Liquor Law Compliance Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Michigan’s wineries have become some of the state’s most sought-after wedding and event destinations. Vineyard views, fun tasting rooms, and a local atmosphere make these venues desirable to couples seeking something different from…
Victory on the Peninsula: What the Wineries of Old Mission Decision Means for Michigan Wineries Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC The recent ruling in Wineries of the Old Mission Peninsula Association v. Peninsula Township, Case No. 1:20-cv-1008 (W.D. Mich. July 7, 2025), represents a watershed moment for Michigan wineries—not just those on Old…
Dram Shop Liability for Winery Tasting Rooms in Michigan Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC If you operate a tasting room in Michigan, onsite or offsite, understanding the State’s dram shop laws is important. These laws impose specific responsibilities and potential liabilities on establishments that serve alcohol, including winery tasting rooms. Michigan’s dram…
Employment Law Focus: Michigan’s Earned Sick Time Act Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC You have probably heard about the recent changes to Michigan’s employment laws via the Earned Sick Time Act (“ESTA”) that was approved by Michigan lawmakers. Especially with significant changes like these, it is crucial for you to stay informed and…
Trademark and Branding Protection for Michigan Wineries Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC The Michigan wine industry is thriving, with more than 170 wineries producing distinctive wines that draw tourists and wine enthusiasts to the State’s tasting rooms and beautiful vineyards. As more winemakers come to market, competition grows, and branding and trademark protection…
Wine (and Beer) Tasting Events at a Retailer’s Location Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC Holding a tasting, or sampling, event at a retailer may be an effective way to introduce your product to consumers. Like all regulatory topics related to wine and beer, there are several items to keep in mind if…
The Attorney General’s Enforcement of Michigan Direct Shipping Liquor Laws Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC A few months ago, I wrote about the requirements to ship wine directly to the consumer in Michigan and complying with the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (“MLCC”) requirements to do so. Both in-state and out-of-state wineries or…
August 2023 Newsletter Get ready for the 2023 MWC Membership Drive and Renewals, Check out the official Michigan Governor’s Cup trophy at St. Julian, Mark your calendars for the River Raisin Wine Trail “Fare & Pair Taste of Fall” Event, Take advantage of the MI Craft Beverage Council Marketplace, Congratulate Dablon Vineyards on their USA Today poll standings, Enroll…
Winery Licensing Process Mark Vanneste Howard & Howard Attorneys PLLC In the last few editions of the monthly Wine Law article, I described the various licenses available for both manufacturers and retailers. This month, the article will briefly cover the process of obtaining one of those licenses. The complexities of Wine Maker and…
July 2023 Newsletter Meet MWC’s new board members, Get an update on the 2023 MWC Election, Mark your calendars for the big upcoming Inclusion & Expansion announcement, Congratulate the big Governor’s Cup Winner from 2023, Celebrate the grant award for continuing word on the Sustainability Agriculture app, Participate in a Growers Survey, Read July’s Edition of Wine Law, Attend a…
