The beer that changed its name is the hop variety previously known as Equinox. This change came about due to a legal dispute between Equinox Brewing and Yakima Chief Hops (YCH). Equinox Brewing claimed to have held the trademark for the name “Equinox” since 2014, narrowly beating YCH to the punch.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I understand the importance of trademarks and the potential conflicts that can arise when two entities claim ownership of the same name. Trademarks are crucial for protecting a brand's identity and preventing confusion among consumers. In this case, Equinox Brewing felt that they had the rights to the name “Equinox” and took legal action to defend their trademark.
To avoid any further legal battles and confusion, YCH decided to change the name of their hop variety. In 2016, they applied for the name “Ekuanot” as a replacement for “Equinox.” This change was approved by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) almost two years later, allowing YCH to move forward with their renamed hop variety.
The renaming of a beer or hop variety can be a challenging process for a brewery or hop supplier. It requires extensive rebranding efforts, including updating packaging, marketing materials, and educating consumers about the new name. It can be a costly endeavor, but it is necessary to maintain a strong and unique brand identity while avoiding legal disputes.
In my own experience as a brewer, I have seen breweries change the names of their beers for various reasons. Sometimes it is due to trademark conflicts, similar to the Equinox case. Other times, it may be because the original name was not resonating with consumers or creating the desired brand image. Whatever the reason, renaming a beer can be a difficult decision that requires careful consideration and strategic planning.
In the case of Ekuanot, YCH successfully navigated the trademark dispute by proactively changing the name of their hop variety. This allowed them to continue offering this unique hop to brewers without infringing on Equinox Brewing's trademark. It is important for breweries and hop suppliers to be diligent in researching and securing trademarks to avoid potential conflicts in the future.
The renaming of the beer formerly known as Equinox to Ekuanot highlights the complexities and importance of trademarks in the brewing industry. It is a reminder that protecting one's brand identity is crucial in a competitive market. By changing the name, YCH was able to move forward and continue providing their hop variety to brewers while avoiding any legal issues.