Brown-Forman Corp. said it agreed to purchase 86 Co. Upon completion, Brown-Forman will add Fords Gin, a premium gin to its portfolio. Terms weren’t disclosed, and Brown-Forman said the transaction should close in 30 days.
“Fords Gin is a unique brand with terrific momentum in one of the fastest growing categories in spirits,” said Lawson Whiting, Brown-Forman president/CEO. “We look forward to building Fords Gin into another iconic brand in our portfolio.”
“Brown-Forman is a great partner to bring Fords Gin to more bartenders and consumers in the U.S. and around the world while keeping our commitment to producing a unique, high quality, mixable gin,” said Simon Ford, 86 Co.co-founder. “We’re extremely thankful to all our supporters who have been championing the brand since the beginning and look forward to seeing what the future holds with our new collaborators.”
A mix of nine botanicals, Fords Gin starts with a traditional base of juniper and coriander seed
balanced by citrus, florals, and spices. Steeped for 15 hours before distillation, the botanicals deliver an aromatic, fresh and floral spirit with elegant notes of jasmine and grapefruit.
Fords Gin was created in unison with professional bartenders as a versatile spirit that could be used in any gin-based cocktail, no matter the recipe ingredients. It’s a collaboration between Simon Ford and 8th generation Master Distiller Charles Maxwell of Thames Distillers.
Brown-Forman said Simon Ford and the 86 Co. team will remain a key part of the building and crafting of Fords Gin going forward.