Milestone Brands buys Naranja liqueur brand from Pura Vida

US spirits company Milestone Brands is continuing its growth with the purchase of Naranja orange liqueur from Pura Vida and Stewart Skloss.

As of January 2018, Naranja will be produced by Madrileña, a Mexican corporation and brand owner of Controy, original creators of the Mexican orange liqueur.

Milestone Brands claimed that Naranja ‘is renowned for its fine balance of bitter and sweet, which perfectly complement authentic Mexican cocktails’.

The company has signed a long-term production agreement with La Madrileña. Stewart Skloss, chairman of Pura Vida, will retain a minority position in the Naranja brand.

Milestone Brands CEO Eric Dopkins said: “As the tequila category continues to grow, we feel Naranja will play a significant role using a recipe and package that speak to the heritage of Mexico. We will be proud to spread the message that authentic margaritas must use ingredients from Mexico.”

Stewart Skloss added: “I’m thrilled about the acquisition for this truly authentic brand and look forward to supporting the Milestone team on Naranja’s projected growth.”

Based in Austin, Texas, Milestone Brands was founded in February 2016 by spirits industry veterans Eric Dopkins and Chad Auler of Deep Eddy Vodka.