Marie Brizard Wine & Spirits (MBWS) has signed an agreement to distribute flagship whisky brands from US spirits company Sazerac in France.

MBWS will distribute Sazerac’s main brands from 1 July.

These include bourbon brand Benchmark; Fireball, which is seen success over the last three years in the US and is positioned in the flavoured whiskies segment; and Southern Comfort, a brand that was recently acquired by Sazerac.

"This wonderful partnership further strengthens our role as a key player on the French market."

MBWS France’s current portfolio comprises William Peel, William Peel Double Maturation, William Peel Honey, William Peel Delicious Coffee, Sir Pitterson, Glenroger’s, and Canadian Tippers.

MBWS CEO Jean-Noël Reynaud said: "This wonderful partnership further strengthens our role as a key player on the French market.

"It illustrates our ability to attract recognised and high-potential brands to our portfolio. I am proud that Sazerac has chosen us."

Sazerac global sales director Guy May said: "Development of our Benchmark, Fireball and Southern Comfort brands in France are strategic priorities and we are pleased to entrust them to a dynamic team with a proven sales and marketing track record in France."