Bacardi ups stake in Teeling

Bermuda-based Bacardi has taken majority control of Irish whiskey producer Teeling, six years after initially investing in the Dublin-based distiller.

Privately owned Bacardi did not disclose the percentage of its stake, but founders Jack and Stephen Teeling will continue to own part of the business and run day-to-day operations.

Bacardi took a minority stake in The Teeling Whiskey Company in June 2017, marking the Bermuda-based company’s first move into Irish whiskey.

From 1 January 2024, Teeling will be distributed by Bacardi in the UK, the Netherlands, Germany and Austria. From February, the spirits company will take the brand to Sweden, followed by Belgium a month later.

“We believe that, together, we can do even more great things for our brand and company,” said Jack Teeling.

“By becoming more integrated into the Bacardi portfolio of iconic brands and their distribution across Europe, we will open up even more opportunities and reach for our brand.”

Teeling has now joined the Bacardi portfolio as its sole Irish whiskey brand. The company also owns its namesake rum, Bacardí, as well as Grey Goose vodka, Bombay Sapphire gin, Patrón Tequila and Dewar’s Scotch whisky, among other brands.

Bacardi regional president Ignacio Del Valle said: “As a fifth-generation Bacardi family member, I understand the bold decision made by the Teeling family to place its trust in us and use our expertise, resources and network to ensure more consumers can enjoy this incredible range of whiskeys.

“Bacardi will take Teeling to the next level and, together with Jack and Stephen, we will grow the brand’s reputation for craft and quality to fuel future success.”

Teeling’s visitor experience in Dublin was named one of the top 10 most popular whisky distilleries in the UK and Ireland.

The increasingly popular Irish whiskey category is giving Scotch a good run for its money in the US.