Southern Comfort is a unique and iconic brand that has a rich history and a distinct flavor profile. In 2016, Brown-Forman Corporation made the decision to sell the brand to the Sazerac Company, a move that brought Southern Comfort back to its Crescent City origins. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring and studying various spirits, including Southern Comfort. Allow me to delve into the details and provide you with a comprehensive answer to the question of who makes Southern Comfort.
1. The Origins of Southern Comfort:
Southern Comfort was first created in the late 19th century by a bartender named Martin Wilkes Heron in New Orleans, Louisiana. Heron was inspired by the flavors and aromas of the city, and he sought to create a unique whiskey-based liqueur that captured the essence of the South. He blended his own whiskey with fruits, spices, and other secret ingredients to create what would eventually become known as Southern Comfort.
2. Brown-Forman Corporation:
For many years, Brown-Forman Corporation was the owner and producer of Southern Comfort. Brown-Forman is a well-respected spirits company based in Louisville, Kentucky. They are known for their portfolio of brands, including Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, and Finlandia Vodka. Brown-Forman acquired Southern Comfort in 1979 and played a significant role in its growth and distribution.
3. The Sale to Sazerac Company:
In 2016, Brown-Forman Corporation made the decision to sell the Southern Comfort brand to the Sazerac Company. The Sazerac Company is a family-owned company based in New Orleans, Louisiana, which was founded in 1850. They have a long-standing history in the spirits industry and are known for their production of a wide range of spirits, including Sazerac Rye, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky.
4. Return to Crescent City Origins:
The sale of Southern Comfort to the Sazerac Company marked a significant moment in the brand's history, as it returned to its Crescent City origins. This change in ownership allowed the brand to be under the guidance of a company deeply rooted in New Orleans and its rich cocktail culture. The Sazerac Company has continued to produce and distribute Southern Comfort, ensuring that it remains a part of the city's vibrant spirits scene.
The question of who makes Southern Comfort can be answered by saying that it is currently produced and distributed by the Sazerac Company. This change in ownership in 2016 brought the brand back to its Crescent City origins and allowed it to be under the guidance of a company with a deep understanding and appreciation for New Orleans' cocktail culture. Southern Comfort continues to be a beloved and iconic brand, showcasing the flavors and spirit of the South.