Will a winery’s sponsorship and/or donation of alcohol to the Chardonnay Classic violate California’s liquor license laws?
No. The Patron Foundation is a public charity under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, Meritage Resort & Spa effectively “surrenders” its liquor license to the Patron Foundation for the duration of the Chardonnay Classic. Wineries, therefore, can feel comfortable that their Chardonnay Classic sponsorships and/or donations will not run afoul of California’s liquor license rules.