Will a winery’s sponsorship and/or donation of alcohol to the Cabernet 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 Cabernet Classic. Wineries, therefore, can feel comfortable that their Cabernet Classic sponsorships and/or donations will not run afoul of California’s liquor license rules.