Friday, December 09, 2016

PERNOD RICARD TO ACQUIRE MAJORITY STAKE IN SMOOTH AMBLER

Pernod Ricard, has announced that it has signed an agreement to take a majority stake in Smooth Ambler Spirits Co, marking a return to the American whiskey market for the French drinks giant.

The West Virginia based distillerY, which was founded in 2009, currently produces Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon, Old Scout Single Barrel Bourbon and a number of other high-end spirits including gins, vodkas and rums.

Smooth Ambler's Old Scout Single Barrel Bourbon

Under the terms of the transaction, John Little will assume the role of CEO and continue to operate the company with same culture and commitment to quality. John Foster will also remain as Director of Sales and Marketing.

Commenting on the news, Alexandre Ricard, Chairman and CEO of Pernod Ricard, said: “This investment illustrates perfectly our strategy of partnering with rising entrepreneurs sharing the same passion for authentic, high-quality brands. It represents a strong opportunity to enter the fast-growing, high-end bourbon market extending even more our fantastic portfolio of genuine brands in our number one market”.

Smooth Ambler’s Old Scout Single Barrel Bourbon, was recently awarded the title of “Best Single Barrel Bourbon in the World” at Whisky Magazine’s 2016 World Whiskies Awards.

The acquisition by Pernod Ricard, is currently subject to regulatory approval and is expected to close in early 2017.

Posted by Steve Rush