Acquisition of Kelvin Cooperage by Charlois
25 July 2023
Through its subsidiary Oak Nation, the Charlois Group is proud to announce the signing of a binding agreement for the acquisition of 100% of Kelvin Cooperage in the United States. Founded in Scotland in 1963, Kelvin Cooperage established itself in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1991, in the heart of Bourbon Country and in close proximity to the finest American white-oak forests. It specializes in the production of high-end bourbon barrels and in the selection and international trade of used barrels for distilleries worldwide.
“I am delighted to welcome Kelvin Cooperage to our group of companies, as we share many commonalities and standards”, said Sylvain Charlois.
Paul McLaughlin, President of Kelvin Cooperage, will continue to lead the cooperage, benefiting from the expertise and support of the Charlois Group. “My brother, Kevin, and I have known and admired Sylvain Charlois and his team for several years. I know that we share the same commitment to the authenticity of our craftsmanship, the excellence of our team and the quality of our barrels. We also share a common family history between our two groups. Together, we will continue to develop a traditional bourbon cooperage to provide exceptional products to our clients.”
Kelvin Cooperage is highly regarded among top bourbon distilleries for the quality of its wood and craftsmanship, as well as its mastery of traditional wood-fire toasting and charring methods. It also possesses strong expertise in the selection of used bourbon barrels, which are reconditioned and repaired for distilleries worldwide.
“This acquisition represents a significant milestone for our operations in the United States and strengthens our positioning in the thriving market of premium spirits. After involving some of our historic cooperages in the production of high-end bourbon barrels and incorporating the expertise of Oakwood Cooperage in Scotland regarding the selection and refurbishment of used casks, we are excited to collaborate with the talented and well-respected team at Kelvin Cooperage,” stated Vincent Garry, US General Manager of the Charlois Group.
