Sazerac in talks to buy German schnapps maker Berentzen-Gruppe

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German drinks manufacturer Berentzen-Gruppe, maker of the Berentzen fruit liqueur and schnapps brand, has confirmed it is in talks with US-based Sazerac over a potential takeover deal.

Berentzen-Gruppe, headquartered in Haselünne, produces a wide range of spirits brands including Berentzen, Puschkin Vodka, Strothmann Original schnapps and Tres Países rum. It also offers a range of soft drinks brands and fresh juice systems, with a presence in over 60 countries worldwide.

Sazerac is headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, offering a portfolio of 450 brands including Sazerac Rye and Buffalo Trace whiskies, Wheatley Vodka, Southern Comfort whiskey liqueur and more.

In a statement shared on 16 September, Berentzen-Gruppe – which is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange – confirmed rumours that it was in negotiations with Sazerac regarding a voluntary public takeover offer from the Southern Comfort producer.

The offer would involve the acquisition of 100% of the outstanding shares in Berentzen, though the company has not offered further details at this stage. It said it will keep the capital markets and public informed of developments in accordance with legal requirements.

Sazerac has been active in pursuing strategic acquisitions in recent years, most recently acquiring UK spirits brand Au Vodka in August 2026.

The company has also been engaged in negotiations with fellow US sprits group Brown-Forman, maker of Jack Daniel’s whiskey, this summer. However, Brown-Forman turned down Sazerac’s latest proposal, valuing the company at approximately $15 billion, in July, stating that the offer did not “align with the vision for Brown-Forman’s future”.

In 2024, Sazerac also agreed to acquire Svedka vodka from Constellation Brands as the latter looked to streamline its offering and focus more on fine wine and premium spirits segments.

Sazerac declined to comment on any potential transaction or market speculation when approached by FoodBev.