Pernod Ricard USA has signed a five-year distribution agreement with Corby Distilleries of Canada to represent its Wiser’s Canadian whisky and Polar Ice vodka in the US.

The agreement, effective from 1 July 2012 till 30 June 2017, also includes temporary arrangements from Corby such as its former distributor transition.

Wiser’s Canadian whisky from Corby has global sales of around 760,000 cases in 2012, while its Polar Ice vodka has global sales figures of 321,000 cases in 2011.

Wiser’s variants currently available in the US are Wiser’s Deluxe, Wiser’s 18yo and the recently launched Wiser’s Legacy.

Polar Ice vodka is a result of four time distillation and three time filtration of the finest grains.

The vodka is ranked third by volume and value in Canada and the second overall in the on-premise channel.

Corby Distilleries CEO Patrick O’Driscoll said the company is happy to partner with Pernod Ricard USA to represent its US-exported brands.

"Not only will Pernod Ricard USA provide national distribution for Wiser’s Canadian whisky and Polar Ice vodka, but the brands will also gain from their expertise working with premium brands", O’Driscoll added.

Pernod Ricard USA CEO and president Bryan Fry said Wiser’s Canadian whisky and Polar Ice vodka are good complements to Pernod Ricard USA’s leading premium portfolio, and each will benefit from its powerful route to market and strong track record of brand building.

The deal will make Pernod Ricard the ultimate parent company of Corby, as it already owns more than 50% issued and outstanding voting common shares of the company.