Federal Judge Denies Injunction in Philly Wine School Trademark Dispute

A federal judge in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania has denied a motion for preliminary injunction filed by PhillyWine LLC against the Wine School of Philadelphia in a dispute over the trademark Philly Wine School.

The ruling, issued May 26 by Judge Joshua D. Wolson, found that the Wine School of Philadelphia has used the name in connection with its operations since at least 2005. The court determined that PhillyWine LLC did not demonstrate a likelihood of success on the merits or irreparable harm sufficient to warrant injunctive relief.

PhillyWine LLC filed the lawsuit in February 2026, alleging that the Wine School of Philadelphia infringed its registered trademark for Philly Wine School. The complaint also claimed that the defendant had filed complaints with online platforms asserting infringement. The Wine School of Philadelphia holds a federal registration for the mark issued in December 2025.

The two entities have operated in the Philadelphia area for years, offering wine education courses. The dispute escalated after the Wine School obtained its trademark registration and took enforcement actions online.

The decision allows both providers to continue using the name pending further proceedings in the case.

Sources: https://www.inquirer.com/food/drink/philly-wine-school-philadelphia-trademark-lawsuit-update-20260529.html https://www.winebusiness.com/news/article/318485