Home / Crime and Justice / Napa Wineries Sue Over $90M Wildfire Harvest Loss
Napa Wineries Sue Over $90M Wildfire Harvest Loss
11 Nov
Summary
- Nearly a dozen wineries sue over wildfire causing $90 million harvest losses.
- Lawsuit alleges smoke contamination destroyed the 2025 grape harvest.
- Owner and contractor accused of reckless actions leading to the fire.
A lawsuit has been filed by nearly a dozen wineries and grape growers in California's Napa Valley against Hundred Acre Winery, its owner Jayson Woodbridge, and contractor Juan Luis Gutierrez Marfil. The plaintiffs are seeking damages and a jury trial, alleging that the 2025 grape harvests were destroyed, leading to around $90 million in losses.
The lawsuit stems from the Pickett Fire, which ignited on August 21, 2025, on Hundred Acre's property. While the fire burned thousands of acres, the plaintiffs assert that the damage extended beyond the immediate fire zone. Smoke allegedly contaminated grapes across the region, particularly impacting the Howell Mountain wine region and rendering the 2025 harvest unsalvageable for several establishments.
According to the complaint, Woodbridge directed Marfil to ignite a debris pile, which Marfil allegedly did using hot ashes, despite a suspension of burn permits. This action is accused of recklessly causing the fire. The plaintiffs state that the inability to release a 2025 vintage damages their brands and market share, with reputation rebuilding potentially taking years.
Hundred Acre Winery, through spokesperson Sam Singer, denies the allegations, calling the lawsuit an "economic ploy" from struggling vintners. The winery maintains that the plaintiffs suffered minimal smoke damage and intends to vigorously contest the claims. No criminal charges have been filed against Woodbridge or Hundred Acre in connection with the fire, and the case remains ongoing.
