Italian Liquor Giant Illva Saronno Dives into American Whiskey with Sagamore Spirit Acquisition
Illva Saronno Group, the Italian powerhouse behind Disaronno and Tia Maria, has acquired a controlling interest in Baltimore’s Sagamore Spirit rye whiskey.
This acquisition marks Illva Saronno’s initial foray into the American rye whiskey market, bolstering its foothold in the U.S.
“This acquisition aligns perfectly with our strategy to diversify into high-growth, high-margin brands, specifically broadening our reach into the premium American whiskey market,” stated Aldino Marzorati, CEO of Illva Saronno Holding S.p.A.
Marzorati emphasized that the move underscores the company’s ambition to evolve “into a global spirits titan,” adding that the acquisition facilitates their entry “into the lucrative bourbon category, maximizing its growth potential across 160 countries where Disaronno is already distributed.”
A Sagamore Spirit spokesperson confirmed that Illva Saronno plans to retain the current whiskey-making process, which relies on rye, corn, and water.
Sagamore Spirit is celebrated for its local sourcing, cutting-edge distillation, and aging processes, all carried out in Maryland. Besides its flagship ryes, the distillery also crafts a line of canned whiskey cocktails like Pineapple Ryegarita, Ginger & Rye, and Black & Rye.
Illva Saronno, a global Italian conglomerate, is most renowned for its signature liqueur, Disaronno, but also holds a portfolio of wines including Duca di Salaparuta, Corvo, and Florio.
