A California winery with a MAGA theme, operated by Paul Johnson, is currently in a dispute with former President Trump concerning a trademark for a wine collection dedicated to him.
Johnson, who runs Republican Red Winery in Monterey, shared that he introduced the 45-47 collection in January 2024, prior to Trump winning a second term. The collection includes several varieties, like the “45-47 Republican Red Special Edition” and a white wine named “45-47 Chardonnay.”
The label promotes itself as “Bold, unapologetically and truly American,” claiming its wines are as powerful as the figure they honor.
Recently, Trump’s associated companies have moved to challenge the Republican Red “45-47” trademark through a filing with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.
Johnson noted he sought the trademark in June 2025, after spotting a company selling 45-47 whisky. According to reports, Trump’s team only became aware of the winery’s efforts relatively recently.
“I think this is just a misunderstanding,” Johnson stated. “Our collection was launched long before Trump became the 47th president and the Republican nominee.”
Trump’s representatives contend that the name “45-47” might mislead consumers into thinking the wine is connected to Trump, especially since he does not drink alcohol.
Johnson recalled a conversation he had with Eric Trump in October 2024, during which no issues concerning the wine were raised. He added, “We received a patent mark for our 45-47 label in the wine category a few months back.”
Johnson explained that the Trump Organization only requested the Patent Office to withdraw the trademark, implying this could be a precautionary measure rather than a direct conflict.
In addition to the 45-47 wines, Johnson produces various other Trump-themed wines, including chardonnays with names like “Drain the Swamp” and “Drill Baby Drill.” He even has a red named “Epic Fury,” referencing U.S. actions against Iran.
“Our support for President Trump is unwavering,” Johnson affirmed. He emphasized that the Trump family backs small businesses that create American-made products.
According to him, he anticipates a simple resolution to the trademark issue. However, he has faced difficulties getting his wines into retail stores, attributing these challenges to the name “Republican” fostering wariness among retailers concerned about backlash from liberals in California.
