Four Roses Distillery is being sold to E&J Gallo Winery, reportedly for as much as $775 million, according to multiple media reports.

Reuters reported the news on Friday, noting that Japanese company Kirin Holdings, which purchased the distillery in 2002, disclosed the transaction, saying the hope is to close the sale by the end of June 2026.

The news source said Kirin aims to “reallocate its resources toward businesses that could further grow by leveraging Kirin’s own organizational capabilities.” 

A potential sale of Four Roses was reported in October and now appears to be a reality.

According to a Gallo spokesperson, nothing will change with Four Roses’ operations, production or distribution. The Lexington-Herald Leader reported also that the deal includes a $50 million earn-out should Four Roses hit undisclosed performance targets.

“Since our acquisition of Four Roses in 2002, the business has achieved strong growth, primarily in the U.S. market, and contributed to the growth of Kirin’s enterprise value,” Kirin said in a company news release. “Kirin regularly reviews its balance sheet and business portfolio from a medium to long term perspective. After careful consideration as part of this review, Kirin decided to enter into an agreement to transfer the business to Gallo.”

Last October, however, The Financial Times reported Kirin wanted to move away from a struggling spirits sector. Kirin is primarily a producer of beer products.

Gallo, primarily a wine producer, added to its Spirit of Gallo portfolio as recently as 2024 with the purchase of rum brand Ron del Barralito, while previously investing in Condesa Gin and Horse Soldier Bourbon, according to Drinks-Intel.com.

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