Italicus creates National Rosolio Day

The first National Rosolio Day will take place this weekend (1 September), with Italicus hosting events that celebrate aperitivo throughout the month.

The day coincides with Italicus’ eighth anniversary, which was founded in 2016 by Giuseppe Gallo, who wanted to ‘revive the nearly forgotten Rosolio category’.

The brand has collaborated with mixologist LP O’Brien, the winner of Netflix series Drink Masters, who will present a mini-series campaign to educate consumers about the brand, the aperitivo category and its culture, as well as creating Italicus recipes that can be made at home.

To celebrate Italicus’ eighth anniversary, eight countries will take part in the campaign: Italy, France, Hong Kong, Hungary, New Zealand, the UK, the US and Switzerland. Participating bars will offer exclusive Italicus cocktail menus.

“The aperitivo is a global trend that started in Italy,” said Gallo. “Now having a trendy moment around the world, the aperitivo blends tradition and innovation in its story and is served in many cocktails at the best global bars.

“For this campaign, we are extremely excited to partner with LP O’Brien – one of the most creative minds in the international mixology scene – to inaugurate Rosolio Day on 1st September.”

Rosolio dates to the Renaissance period, when it was originally created in convents and monasteries as a medicinal tonic. It is traditionally made with a base of alcohol, sugar and water, which is then infused with botanicals, herbs and fruits.

“Being part of the anniversary and Italicus’ launch of Rosolio Day is a tremendous honour,” said O’Brien. “I’m incredibly grateful to be associated with a brand that demonstrates such thoughtfulness in every aspect – from crafting the liquid to designing the bottle and creating a captivating story. Giuseppe, with his extensive experience in the beverage industry, has created something truly special with Italicus.”

Earlier this year, Italicus crowned the winner of its Aperitivo Challenge.