Anheuser-Busch to acquire Cutwater Spirits and expand Beyond Beer portfolio

Anheuser-Busch has bought Cutwater Spirits, a US-based spirits and canned cocktail company.

Subject to regulatory approvals, the acquisition will help Anheuser-Busch expand its Beyond Beer portfolio.

Founded in 2016, Cutwater Spirits offers seven premium mixers, 14 canned cocktails and 16 types of spirits, including whiskey, vodka, gin and rum.

Cutwater Spirits founder Yuseff Cherney said: “We’re thrilled to have found a partner that understands our vision for Cutwater Spirits and will give us the tools and resources to grow and thrive.

“We’re excited to join Anheuser-Busch and work with the team there to bring our spirits and canned cocktails to the world.”

Based in San Diego, California, Cutwater Spirits operates a 50,000ft² production facility. Its products are currently distributed to 34 states.

Upon completion, Yuseff Cherney and other senior-level managers will continue to lead Cutwarer Spirits, using Anheuser-Busch’s expertise in logistics and distribution, brand-building and packaging to scale up the brand.

Anheuser-Busch new business co-founder Marina Hahn said: “We’re excited to welcome the Cutwater Spirits team to the Anheuser-Busch family.

“We have tremendous respect for the brand that Cutwater Spirits has created and cultivated in just a few years and look forward to working with them to expand their premium canned cocktails to consumers across the US.”

Anheuser-Busch’s Beyond Beer portfolio already includes the Ritas, Spiked Seltzer, Babe Rose and HiBall.

Earlier this month, Anheuser-Busch received approval from the federal authorities to release Bud Light Lemon Tea.