Next Century Spirits Enhances Portfolio with Acquisition of Chicken Cock Whiskey

Next Century Spirits Expands Its Horizons with Chicken Cock Whiskey Acquisition

Next Century Spirits (NCS), headquartered in Zebulon, North Carolina, has taken a bold step in the whiskey market by acquiring brand assets from Grain & Barrel Spirits. This strategic acquisition includes the renowned Chicken Cock Whiskey, a brand that boasts a legacy dating back to 1856. This move not only strengthens NCS's portfolio but also marks its inaugural entry into Kentucky, an iconic region known for whiskey production.

A Rich Heritage Revived

Chicken Cock Whiskey was founded by James A. Miller in Paris, Kentucky, during a time when bourbon was first beginning to make a name for itself. The brand experienced a storied history, reportedly becoming the first from Bourbon County to ship internationally. Over the decades, it gained acclaim in various venues, including old western saloons and Prohibition-era speakeasies. After a brief hiatus, the brand was revived in 2012 by Matti Anttila, CEO of Grain & Barrel Spirits, who saw its potential for resurgence in the modern spirits landscape.

With its acquisition, NCS aims to build on this rich heritage and enhance the brand's reputation for quality with its premium bourbon and rye offerings. The brand has already begun to establish itself with its prestigious Kentucky Straight Bourbon and is well-received for its limited edition releases, making it a coveted addition to any whiskey collection.

Expanding the Experience

Included in the acquisition are two tasting-room locations known as Circa 1856, located in Bardstown and Louisville, Kentucky. The Bardstown location acts as Chicken Cock's official home, allowing visitors to engage in tastings and experience the brand firsthand. The Louisville venue features a unique speakeasy atmosphere in the vibrant NuLu neighborhood, providing an intimate setting for enthusiasts to explore the brand further. Anthony Moniello, CEO of NCS, expresses confidence in the brand's story and market positioning, stating, "We're betting on a brand that stands out in a category where distinctive, authentic stories are winning."

Strategic Growth for NCS

This acquisition is a part of NCS's broader strategy to solidify its standing in the spirits industry. The company already holds a variety of well-known brands, including Blue Chair Bay Rum, Nue Vodka, and Pocho Fino Tequila. The addition of Chicken Cock Whiskey will enhance NCS's offerings, providing customers a range of quality spirits that appeal to both traditional whiskey drinkers and newer audiences looking to explore.

Matthew Bronfman, Chairman of the NCS board, emphasizes the strategic importance of this acquisition, noting, "We're excited to welcome respected brands to Next Century Spirits and to have Damon DeSantis and Matti Anttila join our board. Their experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow the company and enrich our portfolio."

The inclusion of industry veterans such as Anttila and DeSantis plays a crucial role as they bring their wealth of knowledge and industry insight to guide the future of Chicken Cock Whiskey within NCS's growing portfolio.

Looking Ahead

With the revival of Chicken Cock Whiskey, NCS is not only breathing new life into a historic brand but also targeting to elevate it back to its rightful place in the competitive whiskey market. The goal is to enhance the brand's legacy while adapting to contemporary trends and tastes. As Anttila puts it, "We believe NCS is the right partner to take it even further, returning the 'Famous Old Brand' to its legacy position atop the U.S. whiskey market."

As NCS embarks on this exciting new journey, whiskey enthusiasts eagerly await the further developments of Chicken Cock Whiskey, which stands poised to make a significant impact in both the local Kentucky market and the national spirits scene. With a commitment to quality, heritage, and innovation, NCS may just redefine American whiskey in the coming years.

For more information about Chicken Cock Whiskey and its storied past, visit chickencockwhiskey.com.
Additionally, learn more about Next Century Spirits and their brand offerings at nextcenturyspirits.com.