Napa County Superior Court recently ordered Hoopes Vineyard to halt on-site wine and food service, along with other disputed activities related to its small winery exemption. However, the 1st District Court of Appeal temporarily paused this order while it evaluates whether enforcing the suspension would cause irreparable harm to the business. Owner Lindsay Hoopes argues that the county exceeded its jurisdiction in restricting functions that she believes are governed by the state.
Hoopes Vineyard Challenges Napa County’s Authority in Winery Permit Dispute
Hoopes contends that Napa County lacks the authority to impose such restrictions, as only the Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) or the Supreme Court can regulate these activities. The dispute dates back to 2020 when the county first flagged the winery for violating its small winery exemption. The exemption permits small wineries to operate without undergoing a rigorous permitting process but restricts public tours, events, and wine tastings.
Hoopes Vineyard Fights Napa County Restrictions in Winery Permit Dispute Over State AuthorityNapa County sued Hoopes Vineyard in 2022, claiming that recent changes to the property violated the exemption. Since acquiring the property in 2017, Hoopes introduced wine-tasting experiences, an on-site animal sanctuary, and a lounge area, allegedly expanding beyond the permitted scope. Despite obtaining an ABC winery license, the county argues that these additions require a use permit due to potential environmental impacts and increased visitor traffic.
Napa County maintains that the small winery exemption was designed to allow low-impact vineyards to function without full commercial requirements. However, attorney Arthur Hartinger, representing the county, asserts that Hoopes’ expanded operations disrupted this balance, providing an unfair advantage over other wineries that adhere to zoning laws. Judge Mark Boessenecker ruled in favor of the county in November 2023, stating that Hoopes gained an unjust competitive edge by bypassing permitting requirements.
Legal Battle Over Hoopes Vineyard Highlights State vs. County Authority on Wine Sales
The preliminary injunction would significantly impact Hoopes Vineyard’s operations, restricting wine sales, requiring label modifications, and preventing customer reservations. Hoopes argues that these restrictions would force her to recall products, cease operations, and prevent employees from tasting the wine—an essential part of the production process. The winery appealed the injunction on February 21, seeking relief while the appeal is pending.
A central argument in Hoopes’ appeal is that the ABC has sole authority over wine sales and tastings. Hoopes points to a 2021 ABC approval allowing outdoor wine consumption, which she argues conflicts with Napa County’s restrictions. Her legal team claims that the trial court overstepped its authority by limiting lawful ABC activities and interfering with state jurisdiction over alcohol licensing and retail operations.
For now, Hoopes Vineyard can continue operating under a temporary stay while the appellate court reviews the case. Napa County spokesperson Linda Weinreich insists that the injunction was legally justified and necessary to maintain fair industry regulations. The county is expected to file an opposition by March 21, with Hoopes’ response due by March 28. The appellate court may decide on the stay without an oral argument, leaving the future of Hoopes Vineyard uncertain.
