Sazerac Must Defend Mini Fireball, Parrot Bay False-Ad Claims

Sazerac Co. failed to convince a federal judge in New York to dismiss proposed class actions alleging its labeling of mini malt Fireball and Parrot Bay bottles misleads consumers into thinking the products are smaller versions of their namesake whiskey and rum options.

The company is fending off multiple consumer suits over its “Fireball Cinnamon,” Parrot Bay, and Chi Chi’s margarita malt beverages that look nearly identical to their larger, namesake versions. Federal courts have rejected Sazerac’s attempts to dismiss the lawsuits in recent months.

The US District Court for the Southern District of New York on Friday rejected ...