Nicola Olianas | Building a Category Beyond Trends | Fernet Branca & Carpano Antica Formula | 064

The MAFFEO DRINKS Podcast is a leading drinks business podcast, listened to in 120 countries worldwide with 125+ episodes. Honest conversations about how the industry actually works, from the bar and what it means for the boardroom.This Episode is hosted by Chris Maffeo and brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS.In Ep. 64, I hosted Nicola Olianas to discuss Fernet Branca's evolution from a medicinal remedy to a global icon known as "The Bartenders Handshake". Nicola shares insights on brand building, the importance of liquid quality, and the creation of a unique category in the spirits industry. The episode also highlights the Fernet Branca coin as a symbol of community among bartenders. Nicola Olianas is the Global Export Head of Advocacy and Ambassadors at Fratelli Branca, working with brands such as Fernet Branca, Carpano Vermouth, Antica Formula, and Punt e Mes. Time Stamps 00:00 Introduction to the Maffeo Drinks Podcast 00:51 Meet Nicola Olianas: Global Head of Advocacy at Fratelli Branca 01:34 The Origin of Fernet Branca: From Medicinal Remedy to Global Icon 02:58 Brand Building vs. Liquid Quality: What Comes First? 06:24 Creating a Unique Category in the Spirits Industry 10:18 The Importance of Versatility in Product Use 23:53 The Bartender's Handshake: The Story Behind Fernet Branca 33:26 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser About The Host: Chris Maffeo About The Guest: Nicola Olianas Wanna know what the conversation above means for your team? It's in the paid section.For €100 a year you get access to Maffeo Confidential (Private Podcast) and get this analysis and access to the full archive of 125 episodes, each one translated from industry conversation into the commercial decisions underneath it. Find out more at maffeodrinks.com