• December 19, 2006

Absolut Vodka is on the shelf, and it looks like potential buyers are coming down the aisle.

The Swedish government plans to sell six state-owned companies, including Absolut parent Vin & Sprit. Absolut is the world's fifth-largest spirits brand.

There have been reports that Pernod Ricard may be interested in buying the brand, although Fortune Brands' Beam Wine & Spirits, which imports and distributes Absolut in the United States through a joint venture, is also a likely candidate because it lacks its own brand.

Anheuser-Busch is seen as a potential suitor because it has hinted at moving into the premium-spirits market.

Wall Street estimates the value of Vin & Sprit at more than $4 billion.