PARIS, April 29 -- French drinks giant Pernod Ricard said Tuesday that talks to buy Brown-Forman, the US owner of Jack Daniel's whiskey, had ended without a deal.

The companies had confirmed in March they were holding talks.

But "these discussions ended without reaching an agreement", Pernod, whose brands include Absolut Vodka and Jameson whiskey, said in a statement.

Brown-Forman confirmed that the companies were "unable to reach mutually agreeable terms."

Of the two drinks giants, Pernod Ricard is valued at over €15 billion (RM69 billion) and Brown-Forman at US$12 billion (RM48 billion).

Rival American group Sazerac is reportedly also keen to acquire Brown-Forman but has not commented on a potential buyout.

Sazerac is a fami...