Strengthened collaboration supports Sugarlands' growing house of brands across key markets
GATLINBURG, Tenn. – (June 23, 2026) – Sugarlands Distilling Company today announced the expansion of its distribution partnership with Morales Beverage Group (MBG) into Texas and Louisiana, further strengthening a growing relationship that now spans five key markets across the South and West.
Through MBG's established distribution network and market expertise, Sugarlands will increase availability across premier on- and off-premise accounts, including restaurants, bars, retail outlets and entertainment venues throughout Texas and Louisiana.
The agreement builds on Sugarlands' existing partnerships with MBG in California, Florida and South Carolina, extending the collaboration into two strategically important states as the company continues aligning with distribution partners that support its long-term growth strategy.
"Growth requires constantly evaluating how and where you can best support your brands, and that starts with having the right partners in the right markets," said Ned Vickers, President and CEO of Sugarlands Distilling Company. "Texas and Louisiana represent significant opportunities for our business, and we're confident MBG is the right partner to help accelerate our momentum while introducing more consumers to the breadth of our portfolio."
Texas holds particular significance for Sugarlands as the home of Azul Imports, the importer behind Azulejos Artisan Tequila. Earlier this year, Sugarlands announced a strategic partnership with Azulejos, marking the company's entry into the tequila category and further expanding its position as a multi-brand spirits company.
“Expanding our partnership with Sugarlands Distilling Company into Texas and Louisiana is a natural next step in a relationship that has already delivered strong results in other markets,” said Eduardo Morales, CEO of Morales Beverage Group. “We look forward to leveraging our expertise and relationships to increase visibility, expand distribution and create new opportunities for Sugarlands’ entire portfolio across both states.”
The expansion comes at a pivotal time for Sugarlands as it continues to evolve its portfolio. In addition to its established lineup, including Sugarlands Shine, Sugarlands Sippin’ Cream, Roaming Man Whiskey, and High Rock Vodka, Sugarlands recently launched Broken Antler Flavored Whiskey and entered into a strategic partnership with Azulejos Artisan Tequila.
Together, these additions further strengthen Sugarlands’ position as a house of brands spanning multiple high-growth spirits categories. The expanded partnership with MBG is expected to accelerate distribution and awareness for both new and existing products, supporting the company’s continued national growth.
Located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee, Sugarlands Distilling Company is a family-owned craft distillery known for its award-winning spirits and one of the most visited distilleries in the country.
About Sugarlands Distilling Co.
Sugarlands Distilling Company is a family-owned craft distillery located in Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Since opening its doors in 2014, Sugarlands has grown into a house of award-winning brands, including Sugarlands Shine, Sugarlands Sippin’ Cream, High Rock Vodka, Roaming Man Whiskey and Broken Antler Flavored Whiskey. The company also partners with Azulejos Tequila, a family-owned ultra-premium tequila brand, to support national growth and distribution.
Launched in 2022 in collaboration with Dale Earnhardt Jr. and his wife, Amy Earnhardt, High Rock Vodka is distilled seven times and then triple-filtered using the Lincoln County Process. Made famous by Tennessee whiskeys, the Lincoln County Process uses sugar maple charcoal to smooth and mellow the finish.
Roaming Man has received widespread industry acclaim, earning four Double Gold medals at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Competition over the past five years (2021, 2023, and two in 2025), and being named Best Whiskey in the 2019 American Craft Spirits Association Awards.
Sugarlands’ vibrant Gatlinburg Distillery has been voted the top craft spirits distillery tasting room in America by USA TODAY 10Best for three consecutive years (2023-2025). It welcomes over one million visitors each year. A proud community supporter, Sugarlands Distilling Company has donated nearly $1 million to nonprofits nationwide through its giveback program, MoonShare.
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