The Bar Journal

As ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto marks its 8th anniversary, the brand is excited to announce the inaugural National Rosolio Day on 1st September, a new tradition dedicated to celebrating this exquisite Italian liqueur. In honour of this milestone, ITALICUS is turning the entire month of September into a global celebration of the aperitivo, with events and special cocktails being showcased in eight countries around the world.

A Revival of Italian Heritage

Founded in 2016 by Giuseppe Gallo, ITALICUS Rosolio di Bergamotto was created to revive the nearly forgotten Rosolio category, a liqueur that dates back to the Renaissance. Traditionally made in convents and monasteries, Rosolio, which means “dew of the sun,” was once a popular welcome drink in Italian homes. It’s crafted from a base of alcohol, unrefined sugar, water, and infused with botanicals, herbs, and fruits—most commonly featuring flavours of spices or citrus.

Though it experienced a decline in the 19th century, Rosolio is now enjoying a modern revival, thanks in part to the craft cocktail movement and a renewed appreciation for traditional spirits. ITALICUS has played a significant role in revitalising this liqueur by combining historic methods with contemporary flavours, such as bergamot citrus, introducing it to a new generation of enthusiasts.

A Month Dedicated to Aperitivo

To celebrate this rich heritage and ITALICUS’s continued success, National Rosolio Day will be officially recognised on 1st September, kicking off a month-long celebration of the aperitivo culture. ITALICUS has partnered with renowned mixologist LP O’Brien, winner of the Netflix series Drink Masters, to help spread the joy of this Italian tradition. LP will present a mini-series campaign aimed at educating consumers about ITALICUS, the aperitivo category, and the cultural significance behind it. She will also share insights on how to craft easy and delicious aperitivo cocktails at home using ITALICUS.

Global Celebrations

The 8th anniversary campaign will take place across eight countries: Italy, France, Hong Kong, Hungary, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Switzerland. Throughout September, participating bars in these countries will host week-long activations featuring exclusive ITALICUS cocktails, allowing consumers to explore the unique flavours of Rosolio di Bergamotto. A full list of participating bars can be found on the ITALICUS website: https://rosolioitalicus.com/the-art-of-italicus/rosolio-day.

Along with these bars, ITALICUS can also be tasted and explored in some of the world’s 50 best bars, including Connaught Bar in London, Sips in Barcelona, Freni e Frizioni in Rome, Double Chicken Please in New York, Bar Leone in Hong Kong, Maybe Sammy in Sydney, Café La Trova in Miami, and BKK Social Club in Bangkok.

A Word from the Founder

“The aperitivo is a global trend that started in Italy and is now having its moment worldwide,” comments Giuseppe Gallo, founder of ITALICUS. “This campaign blends tradition with innovation, and 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.”

LP O’Brien shares her enthusiasm: “Being part of ITALICUS’s anniversary and the launch of Rosolio Day is a tremendous honour. 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 has truly created something special with ITALICUS.”

As ITALICUS embarks on its 8th anniversary celebrations, join us in raising a glass to the history, tradition, and vibrant future of the aperitivo.

Salute and Happy National Rosolio Day!