The latest news, trends, analysis, interviews and podcasts from the global food and beverage industry
American entrepreneur and billionaire John Paul DeJoria has acquired Waterloo Gin, the first gin brand distilled in Texas.
This acquisition marks DeJoria's continued investment in the beverage sector following his success with Patrón Tequila, which he sold to Bacardi in 2018 for $5.1 billion.
Waterloo Gin, developed by Treaty Oak Distilling in Dripping Springs, Texas, was launched in 2009. The brand pays homage to Austin's original name, Waterloo, and has gained recognition for its unique flavor profiles that incorporate local botanicals.
The flagship product, Waterloo No. 9 Gin, is distilled with nine botanicals, including lavender and grapefruit, while its Antique Gin undergoes a two-year maturation process in American oak barrels, infusing it with rich wood flavours.
DeJoria, who also founded Paul Mitchell hair care, said: "Waterloo is an extraordinarily high-quality, innovative and world-class spirit, a gin I'm certain that people will enjoy. I'm very honored for the opportunity to help grow this incredible brand, and share Waterloo Gin with more bartenders, retailers and consumers all across the country."
The leadership of the company will transition to CEO Justin Meigs, a former executive at Empress Gin, where he played a key role in driving the brand to over 260,000 annual case sales within five years.
Daniel Barnes, founder of Waterloo Gin, added: "I'm incredibly excited about this new chapter for the Waterloo brand, now in the capable hands of John Paul DeJoria and his talented team of spirits industry veterans. Their deep industry experience and passion for cultivating and growing brands gives me great confidence that Waterloo Gin will continue to flourish and reach new consumers everywhere."
While the core recipe and production processes will remain unchanged, a refresh of the brand's packaging and imagery is anticipated, along with expanded national distribution set for early next year.
Currently, Waterloo Gin is distributed by Republic National Distributing Company in Texas and Breakthru Beverage in Florida, with online sales available in other states.
#John Paul DeJoria #WaterlooGin #spritis #alcohol #gin #US