Sazerac

Sazerac

Family-owned producer and distributor of spirits

Overview

Sazerac is an independent, family-owned American company that creates and distributes a wide range of alcoholic beverages. It owns and operates distilleries and brands in the United States and around the world, producing whiskies, vodkas, rums, liqueurs, and other spirits that are bottled and sold through retailers, bars, and distributors. The company emphasizes a blend of history, culture, relationships, technology, and its people to drive growth, with a track record of double-digit growth since the 2000s. What sets Sazerac apart is its long family ownership, global footprint, diverse brand portfolio, and emphasis on people and partnerships. Its goal is to be one of the industry’s most desirable places to be, continuing to grow its brands and reach while promoting responsible drinking and a strong company culture.

About Sazerac

Simplify's Rating
Why Sazerac is rated
B
Rated B on Competitive Edge
Rated B on Growth Potential
Rated B on Differentiation

Industries

Industrial & Manufacturing

Consumer Goods

Company Size

501-1,000

Company Stage

N/A

Total Funding

N/A

Headquarters

Metairie, Louisiana

Founded

1850

Get referred to Sazerac

See people who can refer or advise you

Simplify Jobs

Simplify's Take

What believers are saying

  • June 23, 2026 launches added Lovebug, Endless Afternoon, and Buckhorn across U.S. retailers.
  • July 26, 2026 Brown-Forman rebuffed Sazerac, validating management’s ambition and acquisition discipline.
  • August 15, 2026 Au Vodka talks could add a high-growth UK RTD platform.

What critics are saying

  • Brown-Forman family control blocked Sazerac’s $15 billion bid on July 26, 2026.
  • Au Vodka’s £500 million deal remains unfinalized, risking overpayment or collapse.
  • Sazerac’s RTD sprint faces category crowding; competitors can copy flavor-and-nostalgia playbooks fast.

What makes Sazerac unique

  • Family-owned, 500-plus-brand portfolio spans Buffalo Trace, Fireball, Southern Comfort, and Svedka.
  • Sazerac owns distilleries across Kentucky, Cognac, Goa, Sligo, London, Montreal, Sydney.
  • Its RTD engine pairs celebrity marketing with rapid category creation and distribution.

Help us improve and share your feedback! Did you find this helpful?

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Disability Insurance

Life Insurance

401(k) Retirement Plan

401(k) Company Match

Flexible Time Away

Paid Vacation

Paid Holidays

Parental Leave

Wellness Program

Mental Health Support

Tuition Reimbursement

Training Programs

Professional Development Budget

Company News

KamCity
Aug 17th, 2026
US Spirits Giant Acquires Au Vodka

The full content of this article is only available to NamNews Subscribers. If you are an existing subscriber, please log in below. Any problems logging in, contact us here

KMFM
Aug 15th, 2026
Au Vodka founders to toast £500m windfall from Sazerac sale.

Au Vodka founders to toast £500m windfall from Sazerac sale. Saturday, 15 August 2026 10:54 The alcoholic beverages empire co-founded by Britain's best-known former football ballboy is in advanced talks about a possible £500m sale to Sazerac Company, the American drinks giant. Sky News has learnt that Au Vodka, which is headquartered in Wales, is nearing a deal to be sold to the Kentucky-based owner of brands such as BuzzBallz and Southern Comfort. Drinks industry executives not directly involved in the negotiations said they had been ongoing for several months, and that an agreement appeared to be imminent. If successfully completed, a transaction will net major windfalls for Charlie Morgan and Jackson Quinn, who jointly founded Au Vodka in 2015. Mr Morgan had already been become a well-known figure in his native Swansea after being kicked by the Chelsea footballer Eden Hazard during a League Cup match in 2013. After founding Au Vodka, known for its distinctive gold bottles, Mr Morgan and Mr Quinn were joined as an investor in the business by Charlie Sloth, a DJ, producer and TV presenter. The company has enjoyed phenomenal success made all the more remarkable by the struggles of rivals hit by shifting headwinds in the global alcoholic beverages market. President Trump's tariffs blitz has wreaked havoc for many multinational producers, including Diageo, the FTSE-100 owner of Guinness whose new chief executive, Sir Dave Lewis, this month unveiled a far-reaching turnaround plan. Industry sources said that Au Vodka had drawn interest from a number of other trade players over the last year. Sazerac, which has also been involved in a bid to buy the much larger spirits group Brown-Forman in recent months, is said to be keen to expand its presence in Britain. A source close to the company said this weekend that it "admired" Au Vodka and its founders but cautioned that any discussions were ongoing and had yet to be finalised. The value of the prospective deal is said to be as much as £500m when a series of future payments is factored in, with the two founders each expected to walk away with payouts of over £100m. It was unclear whether they would retain roles with the company once a deal is completed. Au has established itself in recent as the UK's leading ready-to-drink (RTD) vodka producer, having started out as a manufacturer of high-proof spirits. The company is also growing quickly in the US and a number of other international markets. In 2023, Au Vodka sold a minority stake to Metric Capital, a private equity firm. Read more from Sky News: Tributes paid to 'very talented' Jason Arday Dozens killed in Indonesia earthquake Its growth has been fuelled by a sophisticated use of social media to promote its brands, while it has also secured endorsements from celebrities including the boxing superstar Floyd Mayweather, former footballer Ronaldinho and Jake Paul, the YouTube star-turned-boxer who tattooed an image of the company's bottle on his body. For family-owned Sazerac, a deal would add a portfolio of fast-growing products to its empire, which also includes brands such as Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky. Bankers at PJT Partners are understood to be advising Au Vodka, while the company's founders are being advised by PricewaterhouseCoopers. The law firm Dorsey is acting for Sazerac, while DLA Piper is representing Au Vodka. A spokesman for Sazerac declined to comment on Saturday, while Mr Morgan has been contacted for comment.

The Bourbon Flight
Aug 12th, 2026
Brightside and Sazerac join forces to support a cleaner Louisville.

Brightside and Sazerac join forces to support a cleaner Louisville. LOUISVILLE, Ky. (August 12, 2026) - A new partnership between Brightside Foundation and Louisville-based Sazerac Company, one of the world's largest distiller spirits companies, will aim to reduce and prevent litter across the city. Sazerac's investment in the Brightside Foundation is offering an example for how other organizations and businesses might collaborate to help create cleaner communities throughout Louisville. Combining volunteer cleanup efforts with targeted infrastructure improvements, a dozen new litter bins will be installed across the city, funded by Sazerac. The partnership aims to reduce litter, improve public spaces and encourage long-term stewardship. "It takes leadership to inspire change. Sazerac is a leader that recognizes issues and is investing to improve our community," said Louis Straub, Brightside Foundation chair. "As Louisvillians, we should all want a clean city, which reflects our citizens pride, civic responsibility, and environmental awareness. But more importantly, a clean city is often more attractive to visitors, businesses, and potential residents, which can support tourism and investment. Well-maintained public and private spaces tend to encourage outdoor activities, recreation, and a higher quality of life. Sazerac is leading the way with their investment. I encourage other business and citizens to make similar investments, either of money or time to keep our community clean and green." With Sazerac's support, and other corporate partners, Brightside's is able to continue to fulfill its commitment to the beautification of Louisville. The Brightside Foundation is actively working to engage with environmentally and socially responsible businesses and community organizations to sponsor large-scale tree plantings, neighborhood cleanup days, or educational programming. To drive home the message of community beautification and community engagement, Brightside is inviting volunteers to a cleanup event on Saturday, August 22 from 9am-11am, in two of the city's most-reported litter zones: south of the University of Louisville and Old Louisville. Brightside Inc. invites area businesses, neighbors and faith groups to participate. T-shirts, gloves, and bags will be provided for all volunteers. Sign up in advance at brightsidefoundation.com/littercleanup. The two-site cleanup runs 9am-11am. In case of severe weather, the rain date is Sunday, August 23 from 1pm-3pm. Litter impacts every corner of a community. It diminishes neighborhood pride, threatens local ecosystems, increases cleanup costs for taxpayers and can discourage investment. Financial support of the beautification initiative goes a long way in revitalizing communities and brightening neighborhoods - ultimately leaving a positive imprint on local pride that encourages further investment, boosting to tourism and outdoor recreation - all positive signs of a healthy city. The impact of Brightside is strengthened with public and private partners, helping communities protect natural resources and improve quality of life. "Sazerac's investment helps Brightside continue building a cleaner, greener Louisville for everyone," said Michelle Black White, Brightside Foundation Executive Director. "Partnerships like this allow us to expand our impact, engage more volunteers, and strengthen the sense of pride that comes from caring for our community together." About Brightside Foundation Brightside Foundation works hand-in-hand with Brightside, Inc. to solicit and oversee privately-raised funds in support of the environmentally focused activities of Brightside. Through its fiduciary role, the Foundation ensures that donated funds are used as the donor intended. About Brightside Donor funded and volunteer driven since 1986, Brightside works to unite people in clean and green activities to beautify the city and foster community pride. Brightside is dedicated to uniting people in clean and green activities that beautify and foster pride in its community through volunteerism, planting, sustainability, and education. Volunteers and community engagement are essential to Brightside's core values. Its community-wide clean-ups have empowered thousands of volunteers to help remove over 300 tons of litter throughout its city. Brightside promotes sustainability through its long-standing education programs that spread its mission to future generations and prepare for a brighter tomorrow, while its green living program advocates and educates about everyday sustainable living practices. About Sazerac Company With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world's largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world. Over 550 of the world's most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Myers's Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy's Irish Whiskey, and many more. Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Hawk's Rock Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montréal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few.

The Bourbon Flight
Jun 25th, 2026
Sazerac Company announces the national launch of three new ready-to-drink.

Sazerac Company announces the national launch of three new ready-to-drink. LOUISVILLE, Ky., June 25, 2026 - Sazerac Company today announced the national launch of three new ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktail brands, demonstrating the company's continued investment in one of beverage alcohol's fastest-growing categories. Launching just in time for summer, the new lineup introduces three distinct RTD experiences designed to meet evolving consumer tastes and drinking occasions: Lovebug Hard Cream Soda, Endless Afternoon Whiskey Lemonade, and Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade. As consumers continue seeking flavor-forward, convenient drinking alternatives, Sazerac is building a next-generation RTD portfolio focused on innovation, occasion-based drinking and differentiated taste experiences. "Consumers are looking for more than just another canned drink. They want real spirits, bold flavor, and brands that make every occasion more fun," says Lauren Selman, Global Growth and Innovation Director. "We're incredibly excited to bring these new offerings to market. Each one was created to deliver the quality, taste, and personality consumers expect while making it easier than ever to enjoy great cocktails wherever the moment takes them." Spirit-based RTDs continue to be a bright spot in beverage alcohol, with the U.S. RTD cocktail category growing +23% in the last 52 weeks according to Nielsen data. * LOVEBUG HARD CREAM SODA A nostalgic twist on soda One sip and you'll catch feelings. Lovebug Hard Cream Soda introduces a true category-first innovation as the first vodka-based cream soda. Reimagining a nostalgic classic for the modern RTD space, it blends indulgent cream soda flavor with a vodka base in a dairy-free, 12oz format. With no sugar, 100 calories, and 5% ABV, it delivers a familiar yet elevated cocktail experience without compromise. Available in four creamy flavors: * Vanilla 'n Cream * Cherries 'n Cream * Cola 'n Cream * Peaches 'n Cream Designed for brunches, rooftops, patios and poolside moments, Lovebug taps into growing consumer demand for nostalgic flavors and wellness-minded indulgence. Lovebug Hard Cream Soda is now available at select retailers nationwide in an 8-pack variety format, with a suggested retail price of $18.99. ENDLESS AFTERNOON WHISKEY LEMONADE Real whiskey. Real lemon. Real good. Endless Afternoon is a refreshing line of whiskey lemonades crafted for laid-back summer days, from backyard BBQs to tailgates and long afternoons with friends. Made with real whiskey and real lemon juice from concentrate, the brand offers a bright, crisp and easy-drinking experience at 9% ABV. Built for any drinking occasion, Endless Afternoon balances bold flavor and refreshment. Available in four flavors: * Original Lemonade * Peach Lemonade * Blackberry Lemonade * Ginger Lemonade Endless Afternoon is now available at select retailers nationwide in an 8-pack variety format, with a suggested retail price of $18.99. BUCKHORN WHISKEY LEMONADE Grab the Buck by the Horns. Expanding the Buckhorn Bourbon Whiskey brand into RTDs for the first time, Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade combines blended whiskey, real lemon juice from concentrate, and bold fruit flavor designed for outdoor occasions. At 7% ABV, Buckhorn brings familiar whiskey taste into a convenient RTD format built for fishing trips, tailgates, camping weekends and backyard hangs. Available in four flavors: * Classic Whiskey Lemonade * Peach Whiskey Lemonade * Blackberry Whiskey Lemonade * Honey Whiskey Lemonade Buckhorn Whiskey Lemonade is rolling out at select retailers nationwide in an 8-pack variety format, with a suggested retail price of $18.99. *Based on Nielsen Volume Trends Report week ending 5/30/2026 ABOUT SAZERAC With over 400 years of history, Sazerac is one of the world's largest distilled spirits companies. Now in the fourth generation of the current family ownership, Sazerac strives each day to bring the finest spirits to consumers and communities around the world. Over 500 of the world's most extraordinary brands are part of the Sazerac portfolio, including Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Eagle Rare, Weller, The Last Drop Distillers, Fireball Cinnamon Whisky, Southern Comfort, Wheatley Vodka, Meyers's Rum, White X Cognac, Sazerac de Forge Cognac, Paddy's Irish Whiskey, and many more. Sazerac is also the steward of many fine distilleries internationally, including Buffalo Trace Distillery in Kentucky, United States; Domaine Sazerac de Segonzac in Cognac, France; Paul John Distillery in Goa, India; and Hawk's Rock Distillery in County Sligo, Ireland. Additional impressive locations can be found in New Orleans, Montreal, London, Cork and Sydney, to name a few.

Global Drinks Intel
Jun 24th, 2026
Sazerac Co releases 16 new RTDs in US.

Sazerac Co releases 16 new RTDs in US. Last updated: 24/06/2026 at 5:33 PM 24 June 2026 'As consumers continue seeking flavour-forward, convenient drinking alternatives, Sazerac is building a next-generation RTD portfolio focused on innovation, occasion-based drinking and differentiated taste experiences.' Sazerac Co has expanded its domestic ready-to-drink (RTD) range with 16 SKUs, launching two new brands and taking its Buckhorn American whiskey brand into the category. The first of the new-to-market brands, Endless Afternoon, comprises a line of flavoured 9%-ABV whiskey-lemonades, while the other, Lovebug, is a 5%-ABV alcoholic cream soda. The third launch is a 7%-ABV line of flavoured whiskey-lemonades under the Buckhorn mark. Endless Afternoon comes in four flavours: Blackberry Lemonade, Ginger Lemonade, Original Lemonade and Peach Lemonade. Lovebug, meanwhile, features Cherries 'n Cream, Cola 'n Cream, Peaches 'n Cream and Vanilla 'n Cream variants. The Buckhorn extension comprises Classic, Blackberry, Honey and Peach. All three lines have gone on sale this week through unspecified US off-premise operators in mixed-flavour eight-packs with an SRP of US$18.99. "We're incredibly excited to bring these new offerings to market," said Sazerac's global growth & innovation director, Lauren Selman. "Each one was created to deliver the quality, taste and personality consumers expect while making it easier than ever to enjoy great cocktails wherever the moment takes them." The trio follow several RTD moves in recent months from the BuzzBallz brand owner, which said it is focussing on "building a next-generation RTD portfolio". Earlier this month, Sazerac expanded the Svedka vodka mark's line-up with a 'vodka water' RTD, while in March, it added the Dirty Shirley premix cocktail brand to its stable.

Recently Posted Jobs

Sign up to get curated job recommendations

Sazerac is Hiring for 219 Jobs on Simplify!

Find jobs on Simplify and start your career today

Don't see your dream role? Check out thousands of other roles on Simplify. Browse all jobs →