Exploring the world of craft Irish whiskey brands and established Bourbon producers, we delve into some of the recent significant whisky acquisitions. Brindiamo Group offers a range of financial services to assist our clients in the alcoholic beverage industry, positioning ourselves as a comprehensive solution provider for businesses in this sector.
One key service we offer is providing carefully crafted financial solutions. We take pride in our role in helping companies bolster their portfolios through whisky acquisitions, as highlighted in the Spirits Journal’s top 10 deals.
Sazerac and John Distilleries – Sazerac has entered the Indian whisky category by purchasing an equity stake in John Distilleries. The Buffalo Trace Bourbon producer acquired the shareholding from Gaja Capital, an independent private equity firm. The company remains “partially invested” in John Distilleries.
SPI Group and Kentucky Owl Bourbon – SPI Group marked its entry into the American whisky category when it bought Kentucky Owl Bourbon. SPI’s subsidiary Stoli Group USA took over national distribution, sales, and marketing of the brand and said it would initially focus on expanding Kentucky Owl’s presence in southern US states.
Bacardi and Teeling Whisky – Bacardi made a move into Irish whiskey with the purchase of a minority share in The Teeling Whiskey Company. The Dublin-based firm will continue to lead and run the business and will operate independently and autonomously.
Remy Cointreau and Westland Distillery – In 2016, the Rémy Cointreau Group added two whiskies to its portfolio with the acquisition of Domaine des Hautes Glaces and Westland Distillery. Rémy Cointreau purchased Westland’s assets as part of plans to expand its portfolio in the single malt whisky category.
Pernord Richard and Glenallachie – Pernod Ricard’s Scotch whisky arm Chivas Brothers sold the Glenallachie Distillery to a team of investors.The deal also includes scotch whisky brands MacNair’s and White Heather. The company plans to launch a range of “premium quality yet affordable” whiskies as well as a range of aged expressions.
Moet Hennessy and Woodinville Whisky Company – Moët Hennessy ventured into the American whiskey scene with the acquisition of Washington-based Woodinville Whiskey Company (WWC).
Constellation Brands and High West Distillery – Constellation increases its premium focus in the US with the purchase of High West Distillery. Constellation is set to help fund the expansion of the distillery and add a second still capable of producing around 50,000 cases of whiskey a year.
Quintessential Brands/Stock Spirits and Dublin Whisky Company – Quintessential Brands acquired the Dublin Liberties Distillery Company. Following the deal, it was announced that Stock Spirits had purchased a 25% stake in the distillery, marking the Central and Eastern European group’s entry into Irish whiskey.
Constellation and Bardstown Bourbon Company – After acquiring craft whiskey producer High West Distillery, Constellation Brands continued its trend of acquisitions by purchasing a minority stake in The Bardstown Bourbon Company. This strategic move aligns with the company's focus on premium, high-margin, high-growth brands aimed at enhancing shareholder value.
Tahi Bev and Myanmar Distillery Company – In a recent development, Thai Beverage Public Company made an exciting move by acquiring a 75% stake in Myanmar Distillery Company, known for producing the popular Grand Royal whisky. This acquisition also includes a 75% stake in Myanmar Supply Chain and Service Co, further solidifying their presence in the industry.
[Source: The Spirit Business]