Don Julio and Casamigos Lawsuit, Are Your Premium Tequilas Really 100% Agave?
If you’ve been paying premium prices for Don Julio or Casamigos tequila, believing you’re getting authentic 100% agave spirits, you’re not alone. Multiple class-action lawsuits filed in federal courts across New York and California allege that Diageo, one of the world’s largest alcoholic beverage companies, deceptively marketed these popular tequila brands as “100% agave” while allegedly including non-agave-derived alcohol in the products. The Don Julio and Casamigos lawsuit has sent shockwaves through the spirits industry and raised serious questions about product authenticity.
What Is the Don Julio and Casamigos Lawsuit About?
The core allegation is straightforward but explosive: laboratory testing allegedly revealed that samples of Casamigos Blanco contained only about 33% ethanol derived from agave, while Casamigos Reposado contained approximately 42% agave-derived ethanol—both falling far below the 51% minimum required to be called tequila.
This matters because consumers pay significant premiums for “100% agave” tequilas, believing they’re getting superior quality spirits made entirely from Blue Weber agave plants.
The Premium Price Problem
Spirits made from 100% Blue Weber agave are sold at a premium because the agave takes five to ten years to mature and is more difficult to harvest. When you see “100% agave” on a bottle, you’re essentially paying extra for purity and authenticity.
According to the complaint filed in California, plaintiff Jacqueline Jackson purchased at least four bottles of Don Julio Blanco between April and May 2025, paying premium prices under the impression she was buying genuine 100% agave tequila.
Court Case Details and Official Filings
New York Federal Case
Case Name: Pusateri, et al. v. Diageo North America Inc., Case No. 1:25-cv-02482
Court: U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York
Law Firm: Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP
Filing Date: May 2025
Key Allegations: False advertising, breach of warranty, unjust enrichment
California Federal Case
Court: San Francisco division of the United States District Court
Law Firm: Baron & Budd, P.C.
Plaintiff: Jacqueline Jackson (California resident)
Additional Claims: Fraudulent scheming and racketeering violations
Florida State Case
Court: Miami-Dade County Circuit Court
Status: Proceedings ongoing as of October 2025
Access Court Documents:
- PACER Electronic Court Filing System – Search by case number 1:25-cv-02482
- Hagens Berman Case Page – Consumer information and updates
- State court filings available through respective court clerk offices
Scientific Evidence: Carbon Isotope Testing Explained
The lawsuits rely on sophisticated laboratory analysis called carbon isotope ratio testing, which can identify the botanical source of ethanol in spirits.
How the Testing Works
Carbon-14 Dating Method:
- Different plants (agave vs. sugarcane vs. corn) have unique carbon isotope signatures
- Agave plants use a different photosynthetic pathway than sugarcane
- Laboratory analysis can detect the percentage of alcohol derived from each source
- This testing is considered highly accurate in food science
What the Tests Allegedly Showed:
According to court filings, carbon isotope ratio analysis allegedly proved that Casamigos and Don Julio products contain substantial quantities of alcohol that is not actually tequila.
Specific test results cited in complaints:
- Casamigos Blanco: ~33% agave-derived ethanol
- Casamigos Reposado: ~42% agave-derived ethanol
- Don Julio 1942 Añejo: ~33% agave-derived ethanol
- Don Julio 1942 Blanco: ~42% agave-derived ethanol
These figures, if accurate, would mean the products don’t even meet the 51% threshold for “mixto” tequila, let alone the 100% agave standard prominently displayed on labels.
Who Filed the Lawsuits Against Diageo?
Named Plaintiffs
New York Case:
- Pusateri (New York resident)
- Mishulovin (New York resident)
- Additional unnamed class members
California Case:
- Jacqueline Jackson (California resident)
- Representing all California consumers who purchased these products
Florida Case:
- Multiple plaintiffs representing Florida consumers
Legal Representation
Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP (New York case)
- Leading consumer rights law firm
- Previously handled major food and beverage class actions
- Website: hbsslaw.com
Baron & Budd, P.C. (California case)
- Specializes in consumer protection litigation
- Known for complex product liability cases
- Website: baronbudd.com
Expert Legal Analysis and Industry Commentary
Consumer Protection Attorney Perspective
Steve Berman, managing partner at Hagens Berman, stated in the firm’s press release: “Plaintiffs paid super-premium prices for Casamigos and Don Julio tequila, but they received neither a premium product nor 100% Blue Weber Agave tequila”.
This statement underscores the central legal theory: consumers suffered economic harm by paying premium prices for mislabeled products.
Tequila Industry Expert Views
While independent spirits experts haven’t publicly commented extensively on the pending litigation (likely to avoid involvement in the legal proceedings), industry publications have noted that transparency issues in tequila production have been controversial for years.
The use of additives and non-agave alcohols has been an open secret in some segments of the industry, though major premium brands have generally maintained their “100% agave” standards.
Regulatory Expert Concerns
As questions swirl around the two premium brands, attention is also turning to the agencies tasked with ensuring tequila purity, including:
- Tequila Regulatory Council (CRT) in Mexico
- Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the United States
- Independent certification organizations
Questions have emerged about how these products received certification if the testing results are accurate.
How Has Diageo Responded to the Lawsuit?
Diageo has forcefully denied all allegations. The company stated it “categorically denies” any misrepresentation or noncompliance with U.S. or Mexican laws and regulations, stating that both Don Julio and Casamigos tequilas are crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave and comply with all the regulatory standards set by the CRT as well as the U.S. alcohol regulations.
Diageo’s Defense Strategy
The company maintains:
- Full Compliance: All products meet CRT certification requirements
- Regular Testing: Products undergo rigorous testing and certification processes
- Quality Standards: Manufacturing processes ensure authenticity
- Meritless Claims: Plans to vigorously defend against what it calls baseless lawsuits
A Diageo spokesperson stated: “These claims are meritless, and we plan to vigorously defend ourselves in court.”
Challenging the Testing Methodology
While Diageo hasn’t publicly detailed its defense, legal experts suggest the company may challenge:
- Accuracy of plaintiff’s laboratory testing
- Chain of custody for tested samples
- Whether samples were authentic products or contaminated
- Statistical validity of limited sample testing
- Alternative explanations for test results
What’s at Stake Financially?
Direct Monetary Claims
The plaintiffs are seeking $5 million in damages on behalf of affected consumers, representing:
- Refunds for premium prices paid
- Price differential between what consumers paid vs. actual product value
- Punitive damages for alleged deceptive practices
Broader Financial Implications
Potential Costs for Diageo:
- Settlement Payments: Could exceed initial $5M demand if certified as nationwide class
- Rebranding Costs: Potential label changes across product lines
- Regulatory Fines: If violations confirmed by TTB or other agencies
- Reputation Damage: Lost sales and market share
- Legal Fees: Extended litigation costs
- Recall Expenses: If court orders product removal
Market Impact:
- Casamigos and Don Julio represent significant revenue for Diageo
- Combined annual sales estimated in hundreds of millions
- Stock price impact from negative publicity
- Competitive advantage loss to rival brands
Injunctive Relief Requested
Beyond monetary damages, the lawsuit also demands an injunction requiring Diageo to halt the allegedly deceptive labeling and marketing practices.
This could force:
- Complete relabeling of all products
- Changes to marketing campaigns
- New quality control procedures
- Independent monitoring of production
Understanding Tequila Labeling Laws and Regulations
Mexican Tequila Standards (NOM-006-SCFI-2012)
Basic Requirements:
- Must contain at least 51% Blue Weber agave-derived alcohol
- Produced only in designated Mexican regions
- “100% agave” tequilas contain no other sugar sources
- Certified by Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT)
Production Categories:
- Tequila 100% de Agave: All fermentable sugars from agave
- Tequila (Mixto): Minimum 51% agave, up to 49% other sugars
U.S. Consumer Protection Laws
Federal Trade Commission Act:
- Prohibits deceptive advertising
- Marketing claims must be truthful
- Material misrepresentations actionable
State Consumer Protection Statutes:
- California’s Unfair Competition Law (UCL)
- New York’s General Business Law § 349
- Florida Deceptive and Unfair Trade Practices Act
Alcohol Beverage Labeling Requirements:
- TTB approval required for all labels
- Statements of composition must be accurate
- False or misleading claims prohibited
The lawsuits allege violations of multiple federal and state consumer protection statutes, not just labeling regulations.
Why This Lawsuit Matters for the Tequila Industry
Historical Context of Tequila Transparency Issues
This case represents the culmination of years of growing concerns about tequila authenticity.
Timeline of Controversy:
2020-2023: Social media influencers and tequila enthusiasts begin questioning major brands’ purity
Early 2024: Independent testing by enthusiasts suggests some brands may contain additives
February 2025: Mexican media reported that agave growers in Mexico demonstrated against tequila companies protesting the use of non-agave ingredients
May 2025: First class action lawsuits filed against Diageo
July-October 2025: Additional lawsuits filed in multiple jurisdictions
Industry-Wide Implications
If the plaintiffs prevail, this case could:
Transform Industry Practices:
- Mandatory independent testing of “100% agave” claims
- Stricter CRT enforcement and surprise audits
- Public disclosure of testing results
- Increased penalties for mislabeling
Create Legal Precedents:
- Standard for proving false advertising in spirits cases
- Admissibility of carbon isotope testing as evidence
- Class certification for beverage labeling disputes
- Damages calculations for premium product fraud
Encourage Similar Actions:
- Other premium tequila brands may face scrutiny
- Expansion to mezcal and other agave spirits
- Broader examination of “craft” and “artisanal” claims
Impact on Smaller Producers
Ironically, if major brands are found to have misled consumers, smaller authentic producers could benefit:
- Increased consumer trust in verified authentic brands
- Market opportunities for transparent companies
- Premium pricing justified by proven purity
- Competitive advantage for brands with third-party testing
What Should Consumers Do? Step-by-Step Action Guide
If You Want to Join the Class Action
Step 1: Determine Eligibility
You may be eligible if you:
- Purchased Casamigos or Don Julio products labeled “100% agave”
- Bought products in the United States
- Made purchases during the relevant time period (typically within statute of limitations)
- Have proof of purchase (receipts, credit card statements, etc.)
Step 2: Contact Class Action Attorneys
Hagens Berman (New York case):
- Visit: hbsslaw.com/cases/casamigos-don-julio-tequila
- Submit online claim form
- Provide purchase information
Baron & Budd (California case):
- Visit: baronbudd.com
- Contact consumer protection department
- Share details of your purchases
Step 3: Preserve Evidence
- Keep receipts or locate past purchase records
- Take photos of product labels showing “100% agave” claims
- Save bottles if you still have them (especially with intact labels)
- Document purchase dates and locations
- Note prices paid to establish economic harm
Step 4: Consider Legal Consultation
If you have significant purchases or unique circumstances, you may want to consult with a lawyer independently to understand all your options beyond the class action.
Step 5: Monitor Case Progress
- Check law firm websites for updates
- Search PACER system for new court filings
- Follow legal news sites covering the case
- Watch for official class action notices (if class certified)
You typically have the right to:
- Opt out of the class action
- File individual lawsuit (consult attorney about statute of limitations)
- Make informal complaint to Diageo customer service
- Report to regulators (TTB, FTC, state attorney general)
Protecting Yourself Going Forward
Smart Consumer Strategies:
- Research brands before purchasing premium spirits
- Look for independent certifications beyond industry self-regulation
- Read reviews from tequila enthusiast communities
- Support transparent brands that publish testing results
- Ask questions at liquor stores about sourcing and authenticity
Resources for Verification:
- Tequila Matchmaker app (tracks brands and production methods)
- Tequila.net database (NOM numbers and distillery info)
- Independent tequila blogs and review sites
- Consumer advocacy organizations
Current Status of the Lawsuits (October 2025 Update)
Procedural Timeline
May 2025:
- Initial complaints filed in New York and California
- Media coverage sparks public interest
- Law firms begin accepting claimants
June-July 2025:
- Additional lawsuits filed in Florida and San Francisco
- Diageo files motions to dismiss in some jurisdictions
- Discovery process begins
August-September 2025:
- Parties exchange initial evidence
- Expert witness depositions scheduled
- Settlement discussions reported but not confirmed
October 2025 (Current Status):
- Cases proceeding through discovery phase
- Motion hearings scheduled for late 2025
- Class certification briefing underway
- No settlement announced
What Happens Next
Expected Timeline:
Q4 2025:
- Court rulings on motions to dismiss
- Class certification hearing
- Additional discovery
Q1-Q2 2026:
- Expert testimony and depositions
- Potential mediation
- Trial preparation if no settlement
2026-2027:
- Possible trial dates
- Or settlement negotiations intensify
- Court approval of any settlement
Important: Class action lawsuits typically take 2-4 years to resolve fully. Settlement could occur at any time through private negotiations.
Broader Implications for Spirits Consumers
Questions Raised by This Case
Product Authenticity: If major brands can allegedly mislabel products, what about smaller brands?
Regulatory Oversight: Are current certification systems adequate to protect consumers?
Premium Pricing: How can consumers verify they’re getting what they pay for?
Industry Standards: Should spirits face the same labeling scrutiny as food products?
Related Consumer Protection Issues
This case fits into broader patterns of food and beverage litigation:
Similar Recent Cases:
- “Made with Real Fruit” beverage class actions
- “All Natural” product labeling disputes
- “Organic” certification controversies
- “Craft” beer authenticity lawsuits
Consumer Rights Movement: Growing awareness that product labels may not always reflect reality, leading to:
- Increased class action filings
- Stronger state consumer protection enforcement
- Demand for third-party verification
- Social media-driven accountability
Frequently Asked Questions About the Don Julio and Casamigos Lawsuit
1. What exactly are Don Julio and Casamigos being accused of?
The lawsuits allege that Diageo falsely labeled and marketed Don Julio and Casamigos tequilas as “100% agave” when they allegedly contain significant amounts of non-agave alcohols like cane alcohol. Laboratory testing purportedly shows agave content as low as 33% for Casamigos Blanco, well below even the 51% required for basic tequila classification.
2. How much money are the lawsuits seeking?
The plaintiffs are seeking $5 million in damages on behalf of affected consumers. However, the actual amount could be substantially higher depending on how many consumers join the class action, what damages the court ultimately awards, and whether punitive damages are included.
3. Which specific Don Julio and Casamigos products are involved?
The lawsuits specifically mention:
- Casamigos Blanco
- Casamigos Reposado
- Don Julio Blanco
- Don Julio 1942 Añejo
- Don Julio 1942 Blanco
However, the allegations potentially extend to other products in these product lines that claim to be “100% agave.”
4. Can I get a refund if I bought these products?
If the lawsuit succeeds or settles, consumers who purchased these products may be entitled to compensation. To participate:
- Visit the law firm websites (Hagens Berman or Baron & Budd)
- Submit your purchase information
- Keep receipts or locate credit card statements
- Wait for official class action notice if class is certified
You may receive refunds, partial refunds, or vouchers depending on the settlement terms.
5. Has Diageo admitted any wrongdoing?
No. Diageo has categorically denied all allegations, stating the claims are meritless and that both Don Julio and Casamigos tequilas are crafted from 100% Blue Weber agave and comply with all regulatory standards. The company plans to vigorously defend itself in court.
6. What evidence supports the lawsuit claims?
The lawsuits are primarily based on carbon isotope ratio analysis, which allegedly proved that Casamigos and Don Julio products contain substantial quantities of alcohol that is not actually tequila. This scientific testing method can identify the botanical source of ethanol in spirits by analyzing carbon signatures unique to different plants.
7. When will the lawsuit be resolved?
Class action lawsuits typically take 2-4 years to resolve. As of October 2025, the cases are in the discovery phase, with class certification hearings expected in late 2025 or early 2026. Settlement could occur at any time through private negotiations, or the cases could proceed to trial in 2026-2027.
8. Could other tequila brands face similar lawsuits?
Possibly. The tequila industry has faced ongoing concerns about transparency and authenticity. If these lawsuits succeed, they could encourage:
- Similar legal action against other brands making “100% agave” claims
- Independent testing of competitor products
- Increased scrutiny from regulatory agencies
- Proactive compliance measures by other companies
9. What’s the difference between 100% agave tequila and regular tequila?
Regular Tequila (Mixto):
- Must contain at least 51% Blue Weber agave-derived alcohol
- Remaining 49% can come from other sugars (typically cane sugar)
- Generally less expensive
- Not required to display “100% agave” on label
100% Agave Tequila:
- Should contain only alcohol derived from Blue Weber agave plants
- No other sugar sources allowed
- Commands premium pricing
- Must state “100% agave” or “100% Blue Weber agave” on label
This distinction justifies significant price differences and is the core issue in the lawsuit.
10. Are Don Julio and Casamigos still safe to drink?
Yes, from a safety perspective. The lawsuit doesn’t allege safety concerns, contamination, or health risks. It focuses on false advertising and mislabeling. The products remain available for purchase, and there are no recalls or safety warnings.
The issue is about authenticity and value—whether consumers are getting what they’re paying for, not whether the products pose health dangers.
11. How do I know if I’m eligible to join the lawsuit?
You’re likely eligible if you:
- Purchased Casamigos or Don Julio products in the United States
- Bought products labeled as “100% agave”
- Made purchases within the statute of limitations period (typically 3-4 years, varies by state)
- Can provide proof of purchase or credible testimony
Contact the law firms handling the cases to confirm your eligibility based on your specific circumstances.
12. What if I threw away my receipts?
You may still be eligible even without receipts. Acceptable evidence includes:
- Credit card or bank statements showing purchases
- Loyalty program records from liquor stores
- Photos of products you purchased
- Credible testimony about purchase history
Law firms handling class actions typically have procedures for claimants without perfect documentation.
Conclusion: A Watershed Moment for Premium Spirits
The Don Julio and Casamigos lawsuit represents more than a dispute between consumers and a global beverage company—it’s potentially a watershed moment for transparency and authenticity in the premium spirits industry.
What’s at Stake:
- Consumer trust in premium product claims
- Regulatory oversight of spirits labeling
- Industry standards for verification and testing
- Precedent for future product authenticity litigation
For Consumers: This case empowers individuals to question marketing claims and demand accountability from major corporations. Whether you choose to join the class action or simply make more informed purchasing decisions, you have options.
For the Industry: Companies must recognize that modern consumers have tools to verify product claims, and laboratory testing can expose discrepancies between marketing and reality. Transparency is no longer optional—it’s expected.
Looking Ahead: As the legal process unfolds through 2025-2026, we’ll learn more about production practices, regulatory oversight, and whether America’s tequila industry has been misleading consumers about product authenticity.
The outcome could reshape how tequila—and perhaps all premium spirits—are marketed, produced, and regulated in the United States.
Important Legal Disclaimer
This article is for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The information presented is based on publicly filed court documents, official statements, and verified news reports available as of October 2025.
Key Disclaimers:
- No Legal Advice: This article does not create an attorney-client relationship and should not be relied upon as legal advice for your specific situation.
- Unproven Allegations: All allegations mentioned remain unproven in court. The lawsuits are ongoing, and no court has made any determination about the validity of the claims.
- Defense Position: Diageo maintains that all allegations are false and plans to defend itself vigorously. The company’s position should be considered alongside plaintiff claims.
- Changing Information: Legal proceedings are dynamic, and details may change as cases develop through discovery, motions, and potential settlement discussions.
- Individual Consultation Required: If you believe you have been affected by these issues and wish to participate in the class action lawsuit or pursue individual legal remedies, consult with a licensed consumer law attorney who can review your specific situation and provide personalized legal guidance.
- No Guarantee of Outcome: The outcome of these lawsuits remains uncertain. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes in legal proceedings.
Consumer Guidance: Make purchasing decisions based on your own judgment and research. This article provides information to help you make informed choices but does not recommend any specific course of action.
Additional Resources and Further Reading
For Consumers Seeking Legal Assistance
Class Action Law Firms:
- Hagens Berman Sobol Shapiro LLP: hbsslaw.com/cases/casamigos-don-julio-tequila
- Baron & Budd, P.C.: baronbudd.com
- Top Class Actions: topclassactions.com (tracks settlements and new cases)
Consumer Protection Agencies:
- Federal Trade Commission (FTC): consumer.ftc.gov
- Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB): ttb.gov
- Your State Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division
For Understanding Tequila Industry
Educational Resources:
- Tequila Matchmaker: tequilamatchmaker.com (brand database and reviews)
- Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT): crt.org.mx (official Mexican regulatory body)
- Tequila.net: comprehensive database of producers and NOM numbers
Industry Publications:
- The Tequila Aficionado Magazine
- Mezcalistas (coverage of agave spirits)
- The Drinks Business (spirits industry news)
Legal and Court Information
Access Court Filings:
- PACER (Public Access to Court Electronic Records): pacer.uscourts.gov
- Search case number 1:25-cv-02482 for New York filings
- Contact local court clerks for state case documents
Consumer Class Action Tracking:
- Class Action.org
- Top Class Actions
- Consumer Affairs
Stay Updated on This Developing Case
The Don Julio and Casamigos lawsuit is an evolving legal matter with significant implications for consumers and the spirits industry.
How to Stay Informed:
- Bookmark this page – We update as new verified information becomes available
- Subscribe to updates from class action law firms handling the cases
- Follow legal news outlets covering consumer protection litigation
- Monitor court dockets through PACER for official filings
Article last updated: October 2025. Information based on publicly available court documents and verified news sources.
About the Author
Sarah Klein, JD, is a licensed attorney and legal content strategist with over 12 years of experience across civil, criminal, family, and regulatory law. At All About Lawyer, she covers a wide range of legal topics — from high-profile lawsuits and courtroom stories to state traffic laws and everyday legal questions — all with a focus on accuracy, clarity, and public understanding.
Her writing blends real legal insight with plain-English explanations, helping readers stay informed and legally aware.
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