Pernod Acquires Majority Stake In Craft Player Smooth Ambler

Pernod Ricard has acquired a majority take in Smooth Ambler Spirits Co., the West Virginia craft distiller best known for its Old Scout Single Barrel Bourbon. The price was undisclosed.

Founded in 2009, Smooth Ambler also produces Smooth Ambler Contradiction Bourbon and a range of other spirits, including gins, vodkas, rums and other whiskies.

Under the terms of the deal, Smooth Ambler co-founder and head distiller John Little will become the craft distiller’s CEO, while John Foster will remain as director of sales and marketing.

Pernod recently tried to acquire major craft player High West, but was outbid by Constellation Brands, which paid around $160 million for the Utah company. —Peter Zwiebach

Tagged : Constellation Brands, High West, Old Scout, Pernod Ricard, Smooth Ambler Spirits Co

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