Brazil's Leblon cachaça has increased its potential for future growth in international markets in a deal which sees Bacardi take a stake in the company.

The size of the investment has not been disclosed , but access to Bacardi's distribution network will give Leblon a leg-up against rivals in major markets.

The brand claims to be the first super-premium cachaça - the spirit used to make Brazil's national cocktail, the caipirinha - to be sold in all 50 US states.

It has pockets of distribution in top-end bars and restaurants in London and Paris, and is also available in the Thai and Irish markets.

Leblon president and chief executive Steve Luttmann said: "With Bacardi's involvement as a strategic partner and investor, Leblon will lead the Caipirinha trend around the world."

John Esposito, president and chief executive of Bacardi USA, said the deal showed the group's commitment to "grow new opportunities in the premium and super-premium spirits segments".

Leblon will benefit from links with a Bacardi portfolio that includes Grey Goose vodka, Dewar's Scotch whisky and Bombay Sapphire gin.