US distiller Next Century Spirits has acquired a selection of brands from local peer Grain & Barrel Spirits, including the American whiskey label Chicken Cock.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed
In a statement yesterday (4 August), the North Carolina-based group said it had bought “certain brand assets from Grain & Barrel Spirts”. Alongside Chicken Cock, the group has also bought a clutch of brands which include Dixie Southern Vodka, Elvis Whiskey and EG Booz. Next Century Spirits said the deal gives it “roots in Kentucky” as well as “a premium anchor” for its whiskey range.
As part of the deal, Next Century also takes ownership of Chicken Cock’s Circa 1856 tasting room sites in Bardstown and Louisville. The Bardstown site, which operates as Chicken Cock’s visitor centre, offers tastings, cocktails and retail, while the Louisville venue includes a tasting room and “speakeasy”. Referring to the Chicken Cock brand, Anthony Moniello, the CEO of Next Century Spirits, said: “We’re betting on a brand that stands out in a category where distinctive, authentic stories are winning. “Together, the Circa 1856 locations give us a physical home in Kentucky and a direct way to introduce more drinkers to the brand’s history and taste.” According to Grain & Barrel’s website, it also makes brands such as High Goal gin and Eterno Verano Tequila.