The French spirits group Remy Cointreau announced today that it has agreed to purchase the Seattle-based Westland Distillery.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The transaction will close before year’s end, according to an article today on Reuters.
Westland produces only American single malt and has been a pioneer in the emerging category.
“The distillery is firmly committed to pushing the category of single malt whiskey forward by utilizing new varietals of barley and oak, exploring concepts such as terroir, and championing distinctiveness,” Remy Cointreau said in a press release. “In addition, Westland is at the vanguard of the growing American single malt whiskey movement that aims to secure a firm description for the category in the United States and abroad.”
“With this investment, Rémy Cointreau will expand its portfolio further into the fast growing high-end single malt whisky category,” the press release added.
This fits into the Remy Cointreau product line of niche premium single malts, like the Islay brand Bruichaddich, and France’s Domaine Des Hautes Glaces.
Westland is a member of the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission whose goal is to define and expand the American single malt category. Assumedly, this deal will help grow the global profile of American single malt.
