Lee Bolton Monier-Williams successfully opposes Trademark for NAPAÑAC

LBMW have successfully represented two clients in a trademark opposition before the UK Intellectual Property Office in which we opposed the Applicant’s mark for NAPAÑAC in relation to brandy and spirits and fortified wines.

Our arguments persuaded the tribunal that the mark evoked a combination of two protected names “Napa Valley” and “Cognac” as the image that would be triggered directly in the mind of the average consumer were the products protected by the protected geographical indication COGNAC (brandy and spirits) and protected designation of origin NAPA VALLEY (fortified wines). The mark applied for has been refused, but the Applicant still could appeal.