Glenturret distillery bought by French winemaker

Edrington has sold the Glenturret distillery, home of The Famous Grouse Scotch whisky, to French wine producer Art & Terroir for an undisclosed sum.

The Glenturret’s history dates back 240 years

Art & Terroir’s acquisition of the Glenturret distillery and brand marks the company’s first foray into the Scotch whisky industry.

The Glenturret distillery and brand were put up for sale in June to allow Edrington to focus investment on its single malt brands, such as The Macallan and Highland Park, as well as blended Scotch The Famous Grouse.

Edrington’s Cutty Sark was also put up for sale at the same time as Glenturret, and was snapped up by French drinks group La Martiniquaise-Bardinet for an undisclosed amount last month.

The Glenturret distillery is situated on the banks of the River Turret in Crieff, Perthshire, and has been producing whisky for more than 240 years.

Ian Curle, chief executive of Edrington, who will step down from the post next year, said: “When we announced the sale in June, we were clear that we expected that all jobs would be safeguarded and we are pleased that negotiations have settled on a good result for Edrington and Art & Terroir, and one which will protect all our employees at Glenturret.

“We are pleased to be placing The Glenturret in the hands of Art & Terroir and we know that the distillery will thrive under their management.”

The deal is expected to be completed in spring 2019 and Edrington will provide operational and technical support to Art & Terror during a transition period.

Silvio Denz, managing director of Art & Terroir, added: “We are proud to take ownership of this fine and historic distillery. Glenturret is the perfect choice as we enter the world of Scotch whisky and we are looking forward to working with the existing team to bring even greater success to this superb single malt and to its beautiful Perthshire surroundings.”