(Drinksint) - Pernod Ricard USA has appointed Southern Wine & Spirits of America as its spirits and wine distributor in the state of Washington, effective March 1, 2012. Martin Crane, senior vice president, sales, Pernod Ricard USA, said the move coincides with the privatisation of Washington’s market, as Southern previously had been Pernod Ricard’s broker in the state. Crane said: “This appointment further enhances our powerful route to market, which now includes relationships with Southern Wine and Spirits in 28 markets across the US."