FRANCE – Pernod Ricard has partnered with Italicus, an Italian super-premium bergamot-infused aperitivo, in a deal that strengthens the French wine and spirits company’s extensive portfolio.
Italicus was created by world-renowned mixologist and Italian spirits expert Giuseppe Gallo to address the fast-growing market opportunity for both a distinguishable, yet versatile, unique ingredient for bartenders, and for a core low-ABV spirit discerning consumer.
Since its launch in 2016, the 20% alcohol by volume drink has found honor in the global modern aperitivo. Italicus has been awarded Best New Spirit 2017 at the prestigious Tales of the Cocktail Spirited Awards and 2019/2020 Top-trending liquor brand by Drinks International.
Pernod Ricard said that even after the partnership with Italicu, Giuseppe Gallo will continue as the active CEO in the brand’s ongoing development.
The wine and spirit maker envisions the partnership as a major step in strengthening its portfolio of specialty brands and an important move in actualizing its strategic plan “Transform & Accelerate”.
“Italicus has experienced a remarkable start, resonating with mixologists and consumers,” said Gilles Bogaert, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer of Pernod Ricard EMEA-LatAm.
“We are thrilled to add Italicus to the Pernod Ricard portfolio and for the Group to help drive its future development.”
Giuseppe Gallo, Founder & CEO of Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto added, “Since its launch the brand has experienced success with both the on-trade and consumers, and it is now time to consolidate with this heavyweight strategic partner in order to accelerate our global distribution.
“We have an ambitious plan to build Italicus into one of the world’s most successful aperitivo brands.”
The deal is the most recent of a string of successful partnerships including Monkey 47, Smooth Ambler West Virginian whiskey, Del Maguey mezcal, Rabbit Hole bourbon and most recently the ultra-premium Japanese gin KI NO BI.
Pernod Ricard said that its extensive global distribution network will continue to play an instrumental role in the success of these brands, which have been growing at a double-digit rate, significantly outpacing the industry average.
