Through its subsidiary Stilo Group (USA), SPI Group has completed an acquisition of Louisiana Spirits and its range of Bayou Rums.

SPI initially acquired a minority stake in Louisiana Spirits in 2015, which was increased to a 72.5% controlling share in 2016.

The handcrafted rum is made from a unique blend of molasses and raw sugar, which is sourced from Louisiana sugarcane. The range includes Select, Spiced, Silver and Satsuma rum liqueurs.

“Bayou Rum is a premium range that is primed for significant distribution growth in the US and globally.”

Last year, Bayou Rum distillery expanded its facility to include a barrel library, an event space and an outdoor entertainment venue, which are valued at more than $6m.

Stoli Group global president and CEO Hugues Pietrini said: “We thank Skip Cortese and Trey and Tim Litel, the founders of Louisiana Spirits and Bayou Rum, for creating a spirit with such a fantastic heritage and high-quality taste, and we are committed to the Louisiana roots that they established seven years ago.

“Bayou Rum is a premium range that is primed for significant distribution growth in the US and globally. This acquisition will allow our team to take this brand to the next level, working with the distillery team on new ranges, increasing volumes and becoming a true player in the rum category.”