Dave Bautista invests in whiskey business

Actor, producer and former WWE wrestler Dave Bautista has been announced as a new investor in Texas-based distiller Devils River Whiskey.

Known for his roles in Spectre, Blade Runner 2049 and the Guardians of the Galaxy films, as well as his career in the wrestling ring, Bautista has added another feather to his cap by joining the whiskey brand as an investor and partner.

Founded in San Antonio, Texas in 2017, Devils River Whiskey produces a number of expressions of both Bourbon and rye whiskey, including Coffee Bourbon, Cinnamon Bourbon, and Agave Bourbon. It currently has a presence in 36 US states and five countries.

Bautista said of his investment: “I’m extremely honoured to join the Devils River family. I was blown away by their products and the love and pride that goes into making them. I couldn’t be more excited to contribute to the growth of the company.”

As a member of the Devils Advocates group, Bautista will also be involved in the brand’s social responsibility efforts.

“Dave’s involvement in our brand is a major step toward Devils River Whiskey leading the diversification of bourbon culture and elevating Texas whiskey,” added CEO and co-founder Mike Cameron. “Our goal is to create a bourbon legacy that can compete directly with recognized world-class distillers in Kentucky and other places with long-established whiskey industries. With Dave’s support and vision, we are confident that we will continue to elevate our brand and gain broader recognition for the Texas whiskey industry.”

Bautista isn’t the only Hollywood heavyweight to get into the spirits game recently. True Detective star Woody Harrelson has teamed up with wellness entrepreneur Amy Holmwood to launch the Holistic Spirits Company.