William Grant & Sons has acquired Scotland’s best-selling whisky brand, The Famous Grouse, along with Naked Malt, from The 1887 Company in a deal completed July 1, 2025. The move significantly expands the independent distiller’s presence in the global Scotch whisky market.
The acquisition brings together two of Scotland’s most recognized whisky companies, with The Famous Grouse joining WG&S’s existing portfolio that includes Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, and Monkey Shoulder. The Famous Grouse currently sells approximately 2.7 million 9-litre cases annually worldwide, with 45% of sales in the UK market.
Historic Whiskey Brand Strengthens Market Position
The Famous Grouse, established in 1896 by Matthew Gloag III in Perthshire, has maintained its position as Scotland’s top-selling whisky since 1980. The brand holds a Royal Warrant, recently renewed by King Charles III in December 2024, and exports to over 100 countries. Its top five markets by volume include the United Kingdom, Sweden, Poland, the United States, and the Netherlands.
Naked Malt, relaunched as a blended malt in 2017, brings additional growth potential to the portfolio. The brand sells around 50,000 9-litre cases annually, with strong performance in Asia Pacific markets, particularly Taiwan and South Korea. According to official tasting notes, Naked Malt features dried fruits, spices, and nuts flavors from its extra maturation in first-fill Oloroso sherry oak casks.
Future Plans for William Grant & Sons Whisky Portfolio
WG&S Chief Executive Officer Søren Hagh expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition’s potential. “It is a remarkable Scottish brand with rich history and a strong market position in a number of countries,” Hagh said of The Famous Grouse. “Over the coming years, we will build on this strong foundation and work to evolve the brand into a true global icon.”
The acquisition received all necessary regulatory approvals, including clearance from the UK Competition & Markets Authority by March 31, 2025. A dedicated transition team ensures continuity for customers and maintains supply chain operations.
This strategic move reflects broader consolidation trends in the spirits industry, where established companies seek to expand their portfolios to capture greater market share. The global scotch whisky market continues to show resilience, with premium and super-premium segments driving growth despite economic uncertainties.
The Famous Grouse maintains partnerships including its role as Official Whisky Partner for Scotland Men and Scotland Women rugby teams through 2026. All brand variants transfer to WG&S, including The Famous Grouse Smoky Black, Sherry Cask Finish, Ruby Cask, and The Famous One expressions.
William Grant & Sons, founded in 1887, remains family-owned through six generations. The company’s expanded portfolio now encompasses leading brands across multiple spirits categories, positioning it for continued growth in international markets.
Read the full article at William Grant & Sons Acquires The Famous Grouse & Naked Malt
