US-based Brown-Forman has signed a definitive agreement to acquire BenRiach Distillery Company for approximately £285m.

Once completed, the purchase will bring three single malt Scotch whisky brands into Brown-Forman’s growing whiskey portfolio, namely GlenDronach, BenRiach, and Glenglassaugh.

The acquisition will include brand trademarks, three malt distilleries, a bottling plant and the company’s headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland.

The BenRiach Distillery Company has 165 employees, including 55 seasonal and casual workers.

"The acquisition of these super premium brands will allow Brown-Forman to re-enter one of our industry’s most exciting and consistent growth segments.

Post-acquisition, it will operate as a subsidiary of Brown-Forman.

Brown-Forman chief executive officer Paul Varga said: "The acquisition of these super premium brands will allow Brown-Forman to re-enter one of our industry’s most exciting and consistent growth segments.

"The Glendronach, BenRiach, and Glenglassaugh single malt brands are rich in history and we believe they will continue to prosper and grow in our hands."

BenRiach Distillery Company managing director Billy Walker said: "We are very confident that Brown-Forman will take The GlenDronach, BenRiach, and Glenglassaugh brands to the next level and fulfill their full potential, and prove to be worthy custodians of these historic distilleries."

The transaction is expected to close by 1 June.