Bacardi takes full control of Teeling Irish Whiskey

Bacardi has acquired the remaining stake in Teeling Irish Whiskey, taking full ownership of the Dublin-based brand as it deepens its position in the fast-growing Irish whiskey market.

The family-owned spirits company said Jack and Stephen Teeling, who founded Teeling Irish Whiskey, will remain involved with the brand to help shape its future and support growth. Bacardi first bought a minority stake in Teeling in 2017 and increased its holding to a majority position in 2023.

Mahesh Madhavan, Bacardi’s chief executive, said Teeling was “the perfect fit” for the group and pointed to what he described as the brand’s quality, craftsmanship and innovation. He also said Bacardi sees long-term global potential in Irish whiskey and believes Teeling gives it a strong platform to expand in the category.

According to Bacardi, Teeling has more than doubled in size since the company first invested in 2017. The brand is now exported to more than 80 markets.

Jack Teeling said he and his brother believe the brand is well placed under Bacardi’s ownership after working with the company for the past nine years. He said Bacardi, as a family-owned business, understands the values behind the Teeling brand and its ambition within Irish whiskey.

The deal adds to consolidation in premium spirits and could influence investment, distribution and international strategy in Irish whiskey, a category where larger owners have been seeking stronger global positions. Full control gives Bacardi greater freedom to align Teeling with its wider portfolio and long-term expansion plans.