Redwood Empire Whiskey has taken a major step forward with the acquisition of the Savage & Cooke distillery in California. This deal is designed to expand production and provide a new destination for whiskey lovers, cementing Redwood Empire’s reputation as a top player in the American whiskey market.
Meeting Rising Demand with Expansion
The acquisition of Savage & Cooke, located in Mare Island on a former naval base north of San Francisco, will help Redwood Empire Whiskey meet the soaring demand for its spirits. In 2024, the brand’s whiskey volumes surged by 30%, reaching 55,000 nine-litre cases. Derek Benham, the founder of Purple Brands, which owns Redwood Empire, emphasized that this move is crucial for meeting the growing market demand.
“Our goal has always been to produce exceptional spirits, and with this new distillery, we’re positioning ourselves to do just that on a larger scale,” Benham stated. The expansion will allow the company to increase production while preserving its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The acquisition will also bring a significant boost to Redwood Empire’s visitor experience, adding a new destination for whiskey enthusiasts.
Savage & Cooke Distillery: A New Chapter
Savage & Cooke, founded in 2018 by renowned wine entrepreneur Dave Phinney, is known for its whiskey aged in wine casks and bottled cocktails. Phinney made his mark in the wine industry with The Prisoner and Orin Swift brands, which he sold for hundreds of millions of dollars. Now, Savage & Cooke serves as his first venture in the spirits world.
As part of the deal, Redwood Empire Whiskey will move its production to Savage & Cooke’s facilities. This transition is set to be completed by the end of January 2025. The distillery’s production capacity has already supported Redwood Empire in recent years, ensuring a smooth transition. Additionally, the acquisition includes all spirits brand assets, a barrel room, a tasting room, bar, restaurant, and event space, enhancing the overall visitor experience.
The Future of Redwood Empire Whiskey
Aaron Webb, CEO of Purple Brands, expressed confidence that the acquisition will solidify Redwood Empire’s place in the American whiskey market. “Demand for our offerings has far exceeded our production capacity for several years,” Webb said. “This move solves that challenge, but it’s not just about expansion – it’s about preserving our tradition of excellence while pushing the boundaries of what we can create.”
Redwood Empire’s commitment to producing high-quality whiskey, including bottled-in-bond whiskeys, single-barrel bottlings, and cask-strength expressions, will continue. The brand’s growth shows no signs of slowing down, and with this new acquisition, it looks set to continue on an upward trajectory in the competitive whiskey industry.
A Bright Future for Whiskey Lovers
The acquisition also marks a new chapter for Redwood Empire, as the distillery will remain open during the transition period for tours and tastings. Whiskey lovers can visit the distillery and experience its rich history and unique offerings, all while enjoying the spectacular views of the surrounding region.
With the addition of this new distillery and its expanded production capacity, Redwood Empire Whiskey is well-positioned to maintain its place as a leading American whiskey brand, serving both traditional whiskey fans and a new generation of enthusiasts.
