Largest Premium Gin Brand in Germany Acquired by Leading Spirits Distributor Schwarze and Schlichte
(Photo: Knut Hansen)
On Wednesday, top German spirits distributor Schwarze and Schlichte acquired Hamburg Distilling Company, the distillery behind Knut Hansen Dry Gin.
According to The Spirits Business, data from Neilson describes Knut Hansen as “the largest premium gin brand in Germany.” This strategic move by Schwarze and Schlichte aligns with its vision to fortify its standing in the high-end spirits market.
“This acquisition marks another step in our company’s development,” Dirk Hasenbein, managing director at Schwarze and Schlichte, informed the Moodie Davitt Report in September. “We will preserve the premium quality and identity of these brands while opening up new growth opportunities.”
While the exact financial terms of this acquisition were not publicly disclosed, it is evident that this venture is set to broaden Schwarze and Schlichte’s spirits portfolio, which already boasts recognized names such as Three Sixty Vodka, Déjà-Vu Aperitif, Shatler’s Cocktails and Friedrichs Dry Gin.
Released in 2017, Knut Hansen Dry Gin is inspired by the legendary German sailor and explorer of the same name. Bearing an illustration of his face on its bottle, the 42%-ABV tipple is made using a wheat base spirit and 14 botanicals, including juniper, rose, apple, sweet basil, lemon, orange and cucumber.
Hamburg Distilling Company has not only given birth to Knut Hansen Dry Gin but also introduced Ron Piet Rum, a 10-year-old barrel-aged expression. The founders, Martin Spieker and Kaspar Hagedorn, will continue to contribute as advisors post-acquisition, ensuring a seamless transition for the brand.
“We are leaving our great brands and our highly motivated team in good hands,” Spieker told the Moodie Davitt Report. “We are firmly convinced that Schwarze und Schlichte is the right partner to lead Knut Hansen and Ron Piet into a continued successful future.”
Also commenting on the acquisition, Hagedorn added: “Of course it is not easy for us to hand over the management of the company. But the step of handing the brands over at this time is the right one for a consistent continuation of the dynamic success story.”
The acquisition is projected to conclude on the 1st of November 2023, marking a significant milestone in the growth trajectory of both companies.
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