Constellation Brands sells Copper & Kings to Kentucky-based Bourdon Spirits Company 

USA – US alcohol producer Constellation Brands has completed the sale of American brandy and bourbon maker Copper & Kings to Kentucky-based Bourdon Spirits Company.  

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. 

Bourdon Spirits said the acquisition represents a significant step in its commitment to the American brandy market. Production will continue at Copper & Kings’ Louisville distillery, maintaining the brand’s established operations in its home state. 

“We plan to build on Copper & Kings’ legacy by honoring its roots and continuing to do things our own way, just as the brand always has,” said Rob Bourdon, founder of Bourdon Spirits.  

“This is a brand that respects tradition while creating with a distinct, American-made spirit. We’re excited to bring American brandy to more people, in more places.” 

Constellation Brands said the transaction aligns with its focus on targeted growth opportunities.  

“This transaction supports Constellation Brands’ commitment to disciplined focus and execution in the specific consumer segments, channels, and markets that can drive growth for our premium and fine wine and craft spirits portfolio,” the company told Just Drinks. 

The Corona beer maker first took a minority stake in Copper & Kings in 2018 and acquired the company outright in 2020 through its Constellation Ventures incubator arm. 

The sale of Copper & Kings follows several brand divestments as Constellation streamlines its wine and spirits portfolio. In December, the company sold Svedka vodka to Sazerac, owner of Buffalo Trace and Southern Comfort.  

In April, it sold six wine brands, including Woodbridge, Meiomi, and Cook’s, to The Wine Group. In 2022, Constellation offloaded additional labels such as Cooper & Thief, 7 Moons, and The Dreaming Tree to the same buyer. 

Despite these sales, Constellation retains a presence in the wine sector with brands including Robert Mondavi Winery, New Zealand’s Kim Crawford, and Italy’s Ruffino Estates, which are largely positioned in the $15-and-above price range. 

The divestment comes as Constellation’s Wine and Spirits division faces ongoing challenges. In fiscal 2025, organic net sales for the segment fell 6% to US$1.7 billion. In the first quarter of fiscal 2026, the unit’s organic net sales declined 21% to US$280.5 million.  

The company has forecast a full-year drop of 17% to 20% in organic net sales for the division, with organic operating income expected to decline by as much as 100%. 

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