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GALLO Four Roses Bourbon Acquisition from Kirin Holdings | Historic Return to U.S. Family Ownership
A historic shift for the bourbon world: GALLO completes its acquisition of Four Roses, keeping Master Distiller Brent Elliott and the existing team in place to guide the brand's next chapter.
Press Release: GALLO Four Roses Acquisition Agreement Finalized
GALLO Completes Acquisition of Four Roses Bourbon From Kirin Holdings
The acquisition strengthens GALLO’s premium spirits portfolio while upholding Four Roses’ heritage and fueling its next phase of growth
MODESTO, Calif. (April 2, 2026) — GALLO announced today that it has finalized an agreement with Kirin Holdings to acquire Four Roses Bourbon, bringing one of America’s most iconic bourbon brands back under U.S. family ownership for the first time in 83 years. The acquisition marks a pivotal moment for Four Roses as it enters a new chapter of heritage, craftsmanship, and growth.
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Strengthening GALLO’s Premium Spirits Portfolio
Four Roses, known for its award-winning ten distinct bourbon recipes, strengthens GALLO‘s global presence in the premium spirits category and increases the company’s footprint in Europe and Japan. As the brand joins GALLO‘s family, the company is committed to continuity across liquid, production, traditions, and people. Four Roses‘ existing team will remain in place, including Master Distiller Brent Elliott.
Commitment to Four Roses Heritage and Global Growth
“Four Roses is one of the most respected bourbons in the world – defined by heritage and craftsmanship – and Kirin was instrumental in re-establishing the brand as a premium straight whiskey in the U.S.,” said Britt West, Chief Commercial Officer of GALLO. “GALLO has more than five decades of expertise in spirits distillation, maturation, and brand building. We are committed to upholding Four Roses‘ quality and building the brand as a cornerstone of our portfolio through increased consumer and trade engagement, innovation, and global expansion.”
A New Chapter for the Iconic Bourbon Brand – GALLO Four Roses Acquisition
“This is an incredibly exciting chapter for Four Roses and a meaningful milestone in our 138-year history,” said Brent Elliott, Four Roses Master Distiller. “From the beginning, GALLO demonstrated deep respect and appreciation for the brand. As we join the GALLO family, we are energized by the alignment in values and the long-term vision they bring. With their support, we’re well positioned to build on our momentum while staying true to the quality and character that have guided us for generations.”
Advisory Teams and Transaction Details
UBS Investment Bank acted as exclusive financial advisor to Kirin Holdings and GALLO was advised by Jefferies in connection with the transaction. Additional terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
Editor’s Note: Back when the initial announcement was made, the price was said to be up to $775 million, according to Reuters. However, no dollar amount is mentioned in the current press release.
What do you think of the GALLO Four Roses Bourbon Acquisition? Next, read these related Four Roses articles: Four Roses Distillery Tour, Four Roses Single Barrel Collection Introduced and Four Roses 2025 Limited Edition Bourbon Details and Release Information.
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About the author: Ed Escott is truly "Bourbon Obsessed". He is the founder of Bourbon Obsessed, LLC, and an Executive Bourbon Steward of the Stave and Thief Society. In addition, he has authored and edited over 600 bourbon and other whiskey reviews, over 50 in-depth distillery write-ups, and many other related articles. He is on the board of the Kentucky Bourbon Influencers and a member of the Lexington Bourbon Society and the Bourbon Capital Guild. Last, but not least, Ed has attended many bourbon-related educational sessions, visited countless distilleries, and is on a never-ending quest to try every bourbon.
Prior to focusing solely on Bourbon Obsessed, Ed practiced in academic medicine for three decades. He most recently was a Professor at the University of Kentucky and served as Chief of the Division of Neuroradiology and Vice Chair For Faculty Mentoring, Development & Wellness of the Department of Radiology. He has extensive editorial experience in academic medical publication, and brings that same academic mindset to Bourbon Obsessed, which is a unique approach for a spirit-focused media company.
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