WhistlePig Gets Minority Investment From Moët Hennessy

North American rye whiskey outfit WhistlePig has made a name for itself over the years as one of the preeminent brands in the rye whiskey segment of the greater whiskey market. Such a presence has not gone unnoticed, as it has been announced luxury wines and spirits Moët Hennessy is acquiring a minority stake in them.

This new undisclosed investment for WhistlePig, according to those behind it, comes with an even bigger feather in the cap – greater access to markets outside of its core United States following. With Moët Hennessy’s help the Vermont distillery’s whiskeys will find placements in selected markets around the world. WhistlePig, to date, has launched successfully on its own in the United Kingdom, and has been going forward from there in “actively exploring options to enter other markets during the last twelve months. The partnership with Moët Hennessy will help WhistlePig accelerate its efforts.”

“The arrangement with Moët Hennessy marks a significant moment for WhistlePig,” said Jeff Kozak, CEO, of WhistlePig, in a prepared statement. “We could not be more pleased to align our brand with the leader in luxury wines and spirits and are excited about the future collaboration with Moët Hennessy’s team in the international market.”

“We have long admired LVMH as a builder of amazing brands and products, and we have learned a lot from Moët Hennessy over the years,” added Wilco Faessen, co-founder of WhistlePig. “We believe there is a great portfolio fit, and, critically, that our cultures are very much aligned in terms of patiently building our brands and business over time, with a focus on quality and a differentiated experience for our consumers and our customers. Formalizing this through an investment in the company plus a comprehensive route to market partnership internationally is another critical milestone in our journey.”

“We are convinced that WhistlePig fits well within Moët Hennessy’s portfolio. This rye whiskey house has done a remarkable job distinguishing itself among the emblematic and iconic craft distilleries in the United States with an ultra-premium standing in terms of identity, quality and price positioning,” noted Philippe Schaus, President & CEO of Moët Hennessy. “We are looking forward to the opportunity for our team to bring the WhistlePig brand and product portfolio to many of our most valued customers around the world.”

It is said this investment will have no impact on WhistlePig’s distribution partnerships in North America.