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Former Pernod Ricard executives launch botanical rum in Brixton

Two former Pernod Ricard executives have joined forces to create a new botanical rum, distilled at a microdistillery in Brixton, south London.

Laurent Lacassagne, previously chairman and CEO of London-based Chivas Brothers, and Patrick Venning, formerly Chivas Brothers' marketing director, have combined their 50 years of experience in the spirits industry to launch Market Row Botanical Rum.

Distilled in the heart of Brixton Market, the super-premium rum is a blend of Jamaican, Bajan and Dominican pot still rums from five award-winning distilleries. It is infused with Kenyan black tea, Nigerian hibiscus and red rose from Pakistan, all inspired by and sourced from the market, and is aged in ex-Bourbon barrels.

Laurent and Patrick teamed up with craft distiller Matt Servini to bring their botanical rum to life, under the banner of Brixton Distillery Company. They have also brought bartender and operations manager Mikey Hirsch on board as Market Row's brand ambassador.

Laurent says: "We believe the market is ripe for a new, straight-talking and inclusive urban rum. We want to bring something new to the category, creating the same levels of craft, creativity and inclusivity to rum that are now seen in gin, and we feel we're the right team to take on that challenge."

Patrick adds: "Market Row Botanical Rum is inspired by the community where it's crafted and we're working to support independent Brixton businesses and people by sourcing ingredients and skills locally to keep our 'Brixton-bottled' botanical rum authentic and give something back to the community." 

Market Row Botanical Rum is available to UK on and off-trade venues exclusively from Boutique Bar Brands. Phil Harding, director at Boutique Bar Brands, said: "We love working with brands that have unique stories and provenance, so were excited by Market Row's roots in the Brixton community, its contacts to great distilleries, and its unique and refreshing take on rum."

13 October 2020 - Bethany Whymark