Brewing giant Anheuser-Busch acquires Cutwater Spirits

Founded in 2016 by former Ballast Point executives, Cutwater Spirits has seven premium mixers, 14 canned cocktails and 16 types of spirits encompassing variations of whiskey, vodka, gin and rum. The company operates out a 50,000 square foot production facility, and currently distributes to 34 U.S. states.

Cutwater Spirits will add premium ready-to-enjoy cocktails to Anheuser-Busch’s 'Beyond Beer' portfolio, which already includes the Ritas, Spiked Seltzer, Babe Rose and HiBall. The spirits business, which will continue to be led by Yuseff Cherney, Earl Kight, and other senior-level managers will leverage Anheuser-Busch’s expertise in logistics and distribution, brand-building and packaging to scale the brand.

“We’re thrilled to have found a partner that understands our vision for Cutwater Spirits and will give us the tools and resources to grow and thrive. We’re excited to join Anheuser-Busch and work with the team there to bring our spirits and canned cocktails to the world,” said Yuseff Cherney, Cutwater Spirits founder.

Cutwater Spirits is the first spirits business acquisition for Anheuser-Busch. As the U.S. arm of the world's largest brewer, AB InBev, Anheuser-Busch is behind beer brands such as Budweiser and Stella Artois, among others.

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“We’re excited to welcome the Cutwater Spirits team to the Anheuser-Busch family. We have tremendous respect for the brand that Cutwater Spirits has created and cultivated in just a few years and look forward to working with them to expand their premium canned cocktails to consumers across the U.S.,” said Marina Hahn, new business co-founder, Anheuser-Busch.

The partnership with Cutwater Spirits is subject to regulatory approval. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.