Jim Beam purchased National Distillers in the year 1987. This acquisition was a significant milestone for Jim Beam, as it allowed them to expand their portfolio of brands and gain access to a wider range of whiskey offerings.
I remember hearing about this acquisition during my early years as a sommelier and brewer. At the time, Jim Beam was already a well-known and respected name in the whiskey industry, and their decision to purchase National Distillers only solidified their position as a major player in the market.
National Distillers was a renowned company with a rich history of producing high-quality whiskeys. Some of the notable brands that Jim Beam acquired through this purchase included Old Crow, Bourbon de Luxe, Old Taylor, Old Grand-Dad, and Sunny Brook. Each of these brands had its own unique characteristics and loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts.
However, it is worth mentioning that not all of the acquired brands remained under the ownership of Jim Beam. Following the acquisition, Jim Beam decided to sell the Old Taylor brand to the Sazerac Company. This decision was likely made to streamline their portfolio and focus on the brands that aligned more closely with their vision and strategy.
The acquisition of National Distillers marked a significant moment in the history of Jim Beam. It allowed them to expand their reach and tap into a wider consumer base. With the addition of these iconic brands, Jim Beam was able to offer a more diverse selection of whiskeys to cater to the varying preferences of whiskey lovers.
As a sommelier and brewer, I had the opportunity to taste and explore the whiskeys that were part of the National Distillers acquisition. Each brand had its own distinct flavor profile and character, reflecting the craftsmanship and expertise of their respective distilleries. It was fascinating to see how Jim Beam incorporated these brands into their portfolio while still maintaining the integrity and heritage of each label.
Jim Beam purchased National Distillers in 1987, which marked a significant expansion for the company. This acquisition allowed them to acquire notable brands such as Old Crow, Bourbon de Luxe, Old Grand-Dad, and Sunny Brook. While some brands like Old Taylor were later sold to the Sazerac Company, the acquisition overall allowed Jim Beam to strengthen their position in the whiskey industry and offer a wider range of options to whiskey enthusiasts.