One of the joys of getting involved in another culture is discovering the "local". Local food, local expressions, local customs. And then there is alcohol. Now, ask most people about France and alcohol and they will say wine, Pernod and Absinthe - of course if you happen to be in Bordeaux high up that list will be pastis and lillet.
While pastis (usually either Pernod Ricard or "51") is well known few visitors get to experience Lillet. The aperitif, which is based on wine and fruit liqueur, is very much a local drink and comes in two forms - blanc and rouge. It is served very cold with a slice of orange peel floating in the glass - and it is delicious.
And now news has arrived that Pernod Ricard is about to take over the buy aperitif manufacturer Lillet. Pernod Ricard's move may well have been prompted by the drink being featured in the latest James Bond Casino Royale.
Philippe Savinel from Pernod Ricard's Ricard claims Lillet is a growing brand that will boost the company's aperitif product range and reinforce its strategy of increasing premium products.
The giant is gobbling up the minow... Little Lillet, which is based near Bordeaux has 7 employees, but I guess they are in for an exciting few months.
Tags: Bordeaux, France, Wine, Travel Tourism
