The US drinks group, Constellation Brands Inc., has been granted approval by US antitrust authorities for its US$1.4 billion acquisition of the Australian wine company, BRL Hardy.

Constellation Brands further announced that BRL Hardy shareholders will vote on the deal on 20 March, while final approval from the Supreme Court of South Australia is due some time in the week beginning 24 March. The deal is expected to be completed in early-April.