Formed in 1997 through the merger of Grand Metropolitan and Guinness, Diageo is the largest distiller globally by sales. Diageo acquired some of the Seagram assets in 2001, which gave it brands such as Captain Morgan rum and Crown Royal Canadian whisky. Since then, mergers and acquisitions have mostly been bolt-on in nature, plugging gaps in the company's product and geographic portfolio. The firm has also shed noncore brands over the years, including the majority of its wine assets in 2015.
Edrington, officially known as The Edrington Group Limited, is a privately owned international spirits company based in Glasgow, Scotland. Founded in 1861, the company specializes in ultra-premium spirits, particularly Scotch whiskies. Edrington has a rich history, evolving from a wine and spirits wholesaler to a prominent player in whisky blending and distillation. The company operates four Scottish distilleries, including The Macallan and Highland Park, and employs around 3,000 people globally.
Edrington's product portfolio features a diverse range of premium spirits. This includes renowned Scotch whiskies such as The Macallan, Highland Park, and The Famous Grouse, as well as Brugal rum, which is a leading golden rum from the Dominican Republic. The company also produces Wyoming Whiskey and No. 3 London Dry Gin through a joint venture. Edrington emphasizes its global reach, serving consumers through various regional hubs and maintaining a commitment to quality and craftsmanship in its offerings.