Scottish drinks giant William Grant & Sons has acquired a popular US craft distillery.

Tuthilltown Spirits in Hudson Valley, New York, produces Hudson Whiskey, which William Grant took over in 2010.

The Tuthilltown distillery, said to be New York state's first since Prohibition, includes a restaurant, visitor centre and a 36-acre site.

William Grant's brands include Tullamore, Drambuie, Glenfiddich and Hendrick's Gin.

Chief executive Simon Hunt said: "In 2010, William Grant & Sons bought the Hudson Whiskey brand as we were not only attracted to the possibilities within the American whiskey category but in particular, the authenticity of the Hudson brand and the excellence of the whiskey; the same is true of the distillery.

"The entire team at Tuthilltown bring an incredible passion to what they do and possess an entrepreneurial spirit that we will wholeheartedly encourage."

The craft distillery was founded in 2005 by Ralph Erenzo and Brian Lee, who will remain involved in the business.

Mr Erenzo said: "William Grant & Sons is a company that holds true family values and is home to a number of spirits brands we respect and admire.

"It is renowned for its excellence in distilling and we share similar.

"We've been working with William Grant & Sons for a number of years and look forward to building on that relationship to help Tuthilltown fully achieve its potential."