Himachal Pradesh High Court Restrains Sale of "Old Mist" Rum in Trademark Dispute With "Old Monk"

By Mehak Aggarwal
Date: July 11, 2025 | Time: 11:20 AM

In a significant ruling on trademark infringement, the Himachal Pradesh High Court has issued an ex parte ad interim injunction in favor of Mohan Meakin Limited, the makers of the iconic Old Monk and Old Monk Coffee-flavored rum.

The order prohibits Eston Roman Brewery & Distillery Pvt. Ltd. from manufacturing, advertising, or selling its coffee-flavored rum under the name "Old Mist" until further notice.

The court observed that the mark "Old Mist" bore substantial visual and phonetic similarity to the plaintiff's well-established brand "Old Monk," especially in the context of coffee-flavored rum, which could mislead consumers and harm the reputation and market of the original product.

Key Points:

• The lawsuit was filed by Mohan Meakin Limited, alleging that Old Mist was deceptively similar to Old Monk, especially in the rum segment.

• The court granted a temporary injunction, preventing Eston Roman from using the contested mark during the pendency of the case.

• The judge found that the similarity in branding could confuse the public and amount to passing off—a legal offense under trademark law.

• This order protects the goodwill of the Old Monk brand, one of India's most recognized and iconic alcoholic beverages.

The matter will continue for a detailed hearing, but this interim relief strengthens the rights of legacy brands against imitation in the marketplace.