Pernod Ricard invests in Italicus

French drinks giant Pernod Ricard has added Italicus – an Italian bergamot-infused aperitivo brand aimed at the on-trade – to its portfolio for an undisclosed sum.

Italian bartender Giuseppe Gallo cradles a bottle of Italicus, the aperitivo he founded in 2016

Classified as a ‘rosolio’ – an Italian liqueur traditionally made from rose petals – the 20% ABV Italicus is crafted from Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian citrus, lemon balm, lavender, yellow rose petals, chamomile and gentian root.

Designed to stand out on the back bar, its elegant, Art Deco-inspired pale blue bottle with gold detailing has won numerous awards.

Aimed at high-end bartenders, Italicus was founded by Italian mixologist Giuseppe Gallo in 2016, who will remain the brand’s CEO and will oversee its development within the Pernod Ricard portfolio.

Italicus is currently on sale in 30 global markets and is set to expand its international presence following the partnership with Pernod, where it will join the likes of Monkey 47 gin and Del Maguel mezcal. In the UK it has an RRP of £29.95.

“Italicus has experienced success with both the on-trade and consumers since its launch, and it is now time to consolidate with this heavyweight strategic partner in order to accelerate our global distribution with US and UK as top priority. We have an ambitious plan to build Italicus into one of the world’s most successful aperitivo brands,” Gallo said.

Gilles Bogaert, chairman of Pernod Ricard EMEA-Latin America, added: “Italicus has experienced a remarkable start, resonating with mixologists and consumers. We are thrilled to add Italicus to the Pernod Ricard portfolio and for the group to help drive its future development.”

Meaning ‘morning dew’ in Latin, rosolios were traditionally made by Italian nuns by macerating botanicals, including rose petals, in alcohol. They tended to be served at big life events like baptisms and weddings.

Italicus made its debut in 2016 at The American Bar at The Savoy in London. It can be enjoyed over ice, mixed with Prosecco and in a Martini.