Thanks to social media fervor, increasing ubiquity in both high-end and low-cost establishments, and an undeniable cool factor, Guinness has hit unprecedented levels of popularity as of late. That considered, it seems like an odd time for the brand’s parent company, Diageo, to consider selling it. But that’s exactly what recent rumors suggest could be in the works.
Sure, the margins for beer aren’t as good as those for spirits, and if Guinness is at an all-time high, Diageo could certainly sell it for a lofty sum. That said, it seems strange that a company would take any sure thing — like Guinness — and trade it in for speculative bets on categories that it has less of a handle on.
On this episode of the “VinePair Podcast,” Adam, Joanna, and Zach delve into the rumor that Diageo might be looking to sell off Guinness, despite (or perhaps because of) the beer’s booming popularity. Could this be part of a move to take over ownership of Moët Hennessy? Who could possibly purchase the iconic beer? Would Ireland riot if it left British hands? Plus, a conversation with friend of VinePair and Ten to One Rum founder Marc Farrell about the present and future of the spirit.
Joanna is reading: How NYC’s Buzziest Neighborhood Bar Makes Its Phish Food Old Fashioned
Adam is reading: Miller High Life: The Big, Corporate Beer That Won the Industry’s Heart
Zach is reading: Molson Coors’ Leinenkugel Snub May Be Its Right, But It Still Sucks