Pernod Ricard has swooped for a stake in posh aperitivo brand Italicus.
The deal, for an undisclosed sum, was aimed at adressing “the fast-growing market opportunity for both a distinguishable, yet versatile, unique ingredient for bartenders, and for a core low-abv spirit for discerning consumers”, said the spirits giant.
Italicus’ 20% spirit is billed as a “modern aperitivo” with ”key notes of Calabrian bergamot” and a “striking” bottle that “embodies the history and heritage of Italy’s distinctive regions”.
It is currently stocked in specialist UK retailers such as Master of Malt and The Whisky Exchange.
The brand had “experienced a remarkable start, resonating with mixologists and consumers”, said Pernod Ricard EMEA chairman & CEO Gilles Bogaert.
“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,” added Italicus founder Giuseppe Gallo.
“We have an ambitious plan to build Italicus into one of the world’s most successful aperitivo brands.”
The news follows a string of acquisitions by the spirits giant over recent years, including Malfy Gin and Rabbit Hole Bourbon.
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