National Grand Marnier Day

A person sipping a Grand Marnier cocktail with a citrus garnish, dressed in elegant attire, in a classy bar setting.. — National grand marnier day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Grand Marnier Day! Get ready to embark on a journey of tantalizing taste and a touch of citrusy sweetness. This special day celebrates the beloved liqueur that adds a delightful twist to cocktails and desserts. So grab your favorite drink and let's uncover the internet history of National Grand Marnier Day!

When is Grand Marnier Day?

It's national grand marnier day on the 14th July.

The Origins of National Grand Marnier Day

While National Grand Marnier Day may not have a long and illustrious history like some other national days, it certainly knows how to make a grand entrance. This flavorful holiday originated in the depths of the internet, where cocktail enthusiasts and dessert aficionados decided to pay tribute to the smooth and orangey goodness that is Grand Marnier.

Grand Marnier, for those who aren't familiar, is a luxurious blend of fine cognac and tropical oranges. It was created by Louis-Alexandre Marnier-Lapostolle in 1880 and has since become a staple in the world of mixology. Whether you're sipping a classic Grand Marnier cocktail or drizzling it over a decadent dessert, this vibrant liqueur brings a touch of elegance to any occasion.

History behind the term 'Grand Marnier'

1827

Birth of Louis-Alexandre Marnier

Louis-Alexandre Marnier was born in 1827 in the French city of Sannois. He belonged to a family of distillers and winemakers, which laid the foundation for his future involvement in the liqueur industry.

1880

The Birth of Grand Marnier

In the year 1880, the term 'Grand Marnier' was born when Louis-Alexandre Marnier-Lapostolle, a French distiller, combined Cognac brandy and bitter orange liqueur to create a unique and flavorful spirit. This luxurious blend became known as Grand Marnier and quickly gained popularity for its rich taste and elegant appeal.

1880

The Birth of Grand Marnier

In the year 1880, the term 'Grand Marnier' was born. It refers to a type of liqueur made from a blend of Cognac brandy and bitter orange liqueur. This delightful combination creates a unique and flavorful drink that has become known for its distinct taste and luxurious quality.

1890

Expansion and International Recognition

During the 1890s, Grand Marnier expanded its reach beyond France and gained international recognition. It became particularly popular in the United States, charming the palates of connoisseurs with its smoothness and distinctive citrus flavor. The term 'Grand Marnier' became synonymous with sophistication and elegance, establishing its place in the global liqueur market.

1876

Creation of the Distillery

In 1876, Louis-Alexandre Marnier joined forces with a distiller named Emile Giffard and founded a distillery in Neauphle-le-Château. They began producing liqueurs and other flavored spirits, focusing on combining exotic ingredients with high-quality spirits.

1927

The Introduction of Cordon Rouge

In 1927, the iconic 'Cordon Rouge' bottle design was introduced for Grand Marnier. This distinctive design features a red ribbon, or 'cordon rouge' in French, wrapped around the neck of the bottle. This aesthetic choice not only adds elegance to the packaging but also serves as a symbol of quality and craftsmanship.

1927

The Creation of Cordon Rouge

In 1927, Grand Marnier introduced their iconic 'Cordon Rouge' bottle, which became a symbol of the brand's high-quality and premium status. The distinctive red ribbon that adorned the bottle became instantly recognizable, making it one of the most iconic liqueur packaging designs in history. 'Cordon Rouge' translates to 'red ribbon' in English, aptly representing the finely crafted spirit within.

1977

The Grand Marnier Company

In 1977, the Marnier-Lapostolle family established the 'Grand Marnier' company to exclusively produce and distribute their world-famous liqueur. This move ensured that the brand's legacy and commitment to excellence would be upheld for generations to come.

1880

The Birth of Grand Marnier

In 1880, Louis-Alexandre Marnier launched his most famous creation, Grand Marnier. This liqueur is a blend of Cognac brandy and orange essence, infused with a secret combination of spices. Its unique flavor quickly gained popularity among connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts.

1962

Grand Marnier in Culinary Creations

By the 1960s, Grand Marnier had established itself not only as a beloved liqueur but also as an essential ingredient in the culinary world. Renowned chefs and pastry artists discovered that the addition of Grand Marnier enhanced the flavors of their creations, particularly in desserts such as soufflés, crêpes, and cakes. The term 'Grand Marnier' became a staple in professional kitchens and home cooking alike.

1892

The Iconic Cordon Rouge

In 1892, Grand Marnier introduced its iconic Cordon Rouge bottle. The distinctive red ribbon (cordon rouge in French) wrapped around the neck of the bottle became a symbol of elegance and sophistication. The bottle design has remained virtually unchanged since its introduction and has become synonymous with the brand.

2016

A Partnership with Campari

In 2016, the Italian beverage company Campari acquired the 'Grand Marnier' brand, joining forces with the Marnier-Lapostolle family. This strategic partnership aimed to leverage the global distribution network of Campari to further expand the reach of Grand Marnier, introducing this beloved liqueur to even more enthusiastic fans worldwide.

1990

Legacy and Continual Innovation

As the years passed, Grand Marnier continued to evolve and innovate while maintaining its legacy of excellence. New variations, such as the limited-edition 'Centenaire' and 'Cuvee du Centenaire,' were introduced, showcasing the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and refinement. The term 'Grand Marnier' remained synonymous with premium liqueur, standing the test of time and captivating discerning consumers around the globe.

Present

Continued Popularity and Legacy

Today, Grand Marnier continues to captivate connoisseurs and cocktail enthusiasts with its rich history and refined flavor. It is widely used as a key ingredient in classic cocktails like the Margarita, Cosmopolitan, and Sidecar. The term 'Grand Marnier' has become synonymous with sophistication and indulgence, representing the perfect balance of tradition, elegance, and taste.

1927

Royal Warrant

In 1927, Grand Marnier was granted the prestigious Royal Warrant by King George V of England. This honor allowed the brand to use the royal coat of arms on its labels, further cementing its reputation as a high-quality liqueur enjoyed by nobility and the elite.

1971

Expansion of the Brand

In 1971, the Marnier-Lapostolle family, descendants of Louis-Alexandre Marnier, expanded the brand's offerings by introducing Cordon Jaune, a yellow liqueur made with bitter oranges. This expansion aimed to cater to a broader range of tastes and to further solidify Grand Marnier's position in the liqueur market.

2016

Acquisition by Campari Group

In 2016, the renowned Italian spirits company Campari Group acquired Grand Marnier. This acquisition allowed Grand Marnier to benefit from Campari's extensive distribution network and global presence. Despite the change in ownership, the distinctiveness and essence of Grand Marnier have continued to captivate drinkers worldwide.

Did you know?

Did you know that Grand Marnier was originally called 'Curaçao Marnier' but was renamed to 'Grand Marnier' in honor of its creator, Louis-Alexandre Marnier-Lapostolle? A touch of grandeur to match the taste!