Created by famous London wine merchants, Berry Bros & Rudd and launched in 1923, Cutty Sark with its yellow label, is one of the most recognisable scotch whiskies in the world.
Edrington’s association with Cutty Sark stretches back over nine decades to the 1930s. The completion of the transfer to La Martiniquaise-Bardinet is expected within a month.
La Martiniquaise-Bardinet president Jean-Pierre Cayard said: “This acquisition is a major step forward to accelerate our international expansion. It will further strengthen our position in Europe and boost our presence in key markets such as the US and Japan. With Cutty Sark, we consolidate our position in scotch whisky, entering in the world’s top five groups (source: The IWSR).
“Cutty Sark perfectly complements our portfolio of international brands including Label 5, Sir Edward’s & Glen Moray scotch whisky, Poliakov vodka, Porto Cruz port and Negrita & Saint James rum.”
Edrington chief executive Ian Curle said: “Cutty Sark is a great scotch whisky and has been a worldwide whisky icon for the last 90 years. We are pleased to be transferring the brand to La Martiniquaise-Bardinet and know that it will thrive under their ownership. We wish them all the very best for the future with this great brand.”
Edrington, which owns The Macllan and Highland Park among others, will continue to provide blending and bottling and other associated services during a transition period.
