Constellation Brands purchases Copper & Kings distillery

Alcoholic beverages producer Constellation Brands has announced the acquisition of US-based Copper & Kings American Brandy Company for an undisclosed sum.

Established in 2014, Copper & Kings American Brandy is a distillery engaged in the production of American Brandy, absinthe, gin and Destillaré liqueurs.

It operates a tasting room and restaurant located in Louisville, Kentucky.

Using a small-batch copper pot-distillation and unconventional methods such as sonic ageing and solera blending, Copper & Kings American Brandy produces a wide range of non-traditional spirits.

Copper & Kings American Brandy Company founder and CEO Joe Heron said: “As Copper & Kings moves into this next phase, we feel immense pride in what we’ve accomplished together with Constellation Brands.

“Copper & Kings and Constellation have had a symbiotic relationship right from the start. Because of that shared culture of innovation, entrepreneurship, and respect for the environment, as well as a good personal relationship, Lesley and I know we are leaving Copper & Kings in good hands.”

Constellation Brands Ventures, a venture capital group of Constellation, made an initial investment in Copper & Kings American Brandy.

Since 2017, Constellation and Copper & Kings have been working together to gain better knowledge about the American Craft Brandy category, while increasing the awareness and distribution of the Copper & Kings brand.

The acquisition is allegedly in-line with Constellation Brands’ objective to offer a portfolio of distinctive brands and products to its consumers.

Constellation Brands president and CEO Bill Newlands said: “As an innovative distillery regarded for its experimental attitude and highly rated craft spirits, Copper & Kings American Brandy represents a significant growth opportunity for us and reinforces our continued commitment to premium spirits.

“American Craft Brandy is a fast-growing category that resonates with consumers, specifically among whiskey drinkers, and provides an excellent bridge between fine wine and craft bourbon.

“Copper & Kings’ prime location in Bourbon Country also presents an opportunity for Constellation to drive brand awareness and further expand the brand’s direct-to-consumer and retail routes to market.”

In July, Constellation Brands purchased Empathy Wines, a digitally-native wine brand and direct-to-consumer (DTC) platform.