Pernod Ricard USA’s New Brand Ventures division has signed an agreement to acquire a majority stake in the Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal.

The transaction is expected to close within the next 90 days.

Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal is a producer of artisanal, hand-crafted mezcals in the US. Established in 1995 by Ron Cooper, the company offers a range of products from the Oaxaca region of Mexico.

Cooper said: “We partnered with Pernod Ricard because they understand and appreciate our mission of preserving the culture of the Zapotec people and protecting the traditional process of making mescal.

"Through this partnership, our management team will gain increased opportunities to distribute our products to mezcal lovers around the world."

“Through this partnership, our management team will gain increased opportunities to distribute our products to mezcal lovers around the world while also ensuring that the palenqueros, or families we work with, are able to continue crafting their liquid art for generations to come.”

As per the agreement, Del Maguey's employees and management team will remain in place. Del Maguey’s operations in Mexico too will continue to remain intact.

Pernod Ricard's chairman and chief operating officer (CEO) Alexandre Ricard said: “We are very impressed by Del Maguey’s successful track record and the high quality of their mezcals.

“This partnership illustrates our continued strategy of partnering with dynamic entrepreneurs who share our passion for authentic, high-quality crafted premium products and further extends our fantastic portfolio of genuine brands.”