A family-operated group in Melbourne has purchased Australia-based whisky brand Sullivans Cove.

Former general manager of Scotch distillery Bladnoch Adam Sable is the managing director of the family-operated group.

Sullivans Cove single malt whisky sales and marketing manager Nathan Campbell was quoted by Theshout.com as saying: "We’ve been acquired by a family run, Melbourne-based business, basically with the intention of looking to grow the brand and realise the potential that we have built up over the last 13 years under Patrick’s direction and ownership.

"It was very important for us that we sign with someone who shares the same values and beliefs around maintaining that quality."

“We’re looking to take Sullivans Cove and Tasmanian whisky to the next level.

"So it’s been something that we have been thinking about for a little while now and obviously it was very important for us that we sign with someone who shares the same values and beliefs around maintaining that quality and looking to build as opposed to anything else.”

Executivestyle.com reported that the divestment brings to an end to the 13-year ownership period of an investor group led by distiller Patrick Maguire. He, along with the entire Sullivans Cove team, will remain with the business.

Sullivans Cove was acquired by Maguire and partners at liquidation in 2003.

Financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.