Pernod Ricard’s US subsidiary has acquired the remaining stake of tequila brand Avión Spirits.

Avión Spirits was founded by Ken Austin, who will continue to be involved in the firm’s growth activities until 2020.

Avión Spirits’ beverages are produced from a rare blue weber agave obtained from Jesus Maria in Jalisco, Mexico.

“The Pernod Ricard people, distributors and brokers have been and will continue to be key drivers in taking Avión to the next level.”

The company utilises a unique, intensive distilling process and ultra-slow filtration to create a range of tequila flavours, including Silver, Reposado, Anejo, Espresso Liqueur and Avión Reserva 44 Extra Anejo variants.

Pernod Ricard USA CEO Paul Duffy said: “Avión has become a leading aspirational lifestyle brand in the fast-growing ultra-premium tequila category.

“This acquisition is important for Pernod Ricard USA as we focus on premiumisation and building brands that consumers are passionate about.”

Ken Austin said: “The Pernod Ricard people, distributors and brokers have been and will continue to be key drivers in taking Avión to the next level.”

A premium spirits and wine company, Pernod Ricard USA’s spirits and wines include brands such as Absolut® Vodka, Avión® Tequila, Chivas Regal® Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet® Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Jameson® Irish Whiskey.