The Story

Using a secret and ancient production method, Domenis started distilling different raw materials: white pomace, black pomace and fruit. The resulting grappa was already then commonly called “storica [historic]” for its superior and particular aromatic characteristics that differentiated it from all other spirits of the period.

The Domenis family then settled in Cividale del Friuli. The grandfather Pietro Domenis founded the distillery that began distributing its products in Friuli.

The Domenis products, going beyond the boundaries of local regional consumption, gradually began to assert themselves in the domestic market. After the war and during the years of economic development Italy’s cultural changes shifted the axis of perception of grappa, from a craft product to a refined spirit of dignity equal to many and more well-known foreign products.

The Domenis distillation method improved due to large investments in the production plant. The company’s know-how was patented; the still plant, made entirely of copper, and the discontinuous method with low-pressure direct steam defined the quality recognition of a company with increasing expansion in the market.

State law 1559/51 codified the “grappa” designation. Now this name can only be granted to spirits made from grape pomace, with the specific exclusion of spirits directly derived from the grape itself.

Storica [the brand “Historic”] was born. The perfect combination of alcohol and composition of aromas made this young grappa an instant hit, allowing Domenis to establish itself as a recognised leader in the market of high-end spirits.

Domenis continued its work of improving the distillation technique. The first prototypes of Acquavite [grape spirit] were developed, and these have been recently re-approved by the spirits market.

The European Council established the rules which limit the use of the name “grappa” only to grape pomace distillates produced in Italy. Silvano Domenis actively participated in the drafting of the document in his role as President of the Consorzio Tutela Grappa Friulana which was founded in 1975.

Domenis celebrated its first 100 years of distilling activities.

Storica Nera [the brand “Historic Black”], the spearhead of the company, was launched. Domenis pushed its art to the extreme, creating Secolo [brand “Century”], a grappa of 60° strength. A tribute to the founder, Peter, and a challenge successfully won – to create a harmonious and elegant spirit, refined and at the same time soft and velvety.

Domenis launched its organic line. Domenis responded to consumers’ desire for products made with organic ingredients by selecting only certified pomace suppliers. Domenis also launched its kosher products, made according to the ancient rules of the Jewish religion.

Italians started attributing importance to the question of healthy and sustainable life style. The demand for products made from organically grown ingredients increased and pushed the market to re-position part of its supply orientation.

Domenis also began to use pomace from organically grown grapes to make their grappa.

With more severe legislation on road driving and new aligned consumer demands, grew the need for products with more moderate alcohol content.

The Domenis concept of the single shot renewed the image of spirits packaging. The 5 ml packs became a must for those who wanted true quality. Futura [brand “Future”], in its young and reserve versions, is how Domenis interpreted the new trend in consumer tastes: spirits with moderate alcohol content characterised by impeccable quality.

From Domenis research was born Amaro and Sambuca. Fine spirits with an intense flavour that confirm, in two products alternatives to grappa, the great quality associated with the Domenis name.

Started in 2009, the company’s image enhancement programme was completed. A new logo and corporate style renovated the product labelling and packaging in the medium and high ranges.

Storica Nera was awarded the “Gold Label” prize at the International Packaging Competition at Vinitaly 2011 in Verona.

2016 marks the beginning of a new course for the historic DOMENIS® brand and for the prestigious distillery in Cividale del Friuli, once again re-launching itself on the high-quality spirits market under the brand “DOMENIS1898 srl”.

A new course in the wake of continuity and tradition, to preserve and enhance the heritage of wisdom and culture embedded in the centuries-old Domenis distilling family, but with an eye to the future – new products, new markets, new challenges.

The offer range is increased even further: in addition to lower alcohol content grappas, mixing spirits – such as bitters and gin- as well as creams, are presented on the market. The range of organic products, of which DOMENIS1898 has been among the first producers since 1998, a symbol of quality and awareness in respect of the environment, is enriched with Storica Nera BIO.

To celebrate 120 years of wisdom, mastery and art, DOMENIS1898 presents LA120, the result of a selection of the best aged grappas which is immediately awarded.

Alongside the best Friulian grappas, DOMENIS1898 also brings to the market different gins, including Cividât, the 42° gin that best expresses the particularities of Cividale del Friuli territory, and liqueurs such as Storica Amaro, Storica Verde and Storica Sambuca, all recognized excellence.

Then the Company gave birth to LADY Domenis, the line dedicated to women, and VEGAN, the vegan and organic product line certified by Vegan Society and CCPB.

The journey continues with new and innovative products, not only with grappa, but also expanding Trittico line – products expressly dedicated to Mixology – with products such as Queen Mary (hemp bitter), DOMAZ (alcohol-free bitter), and the last born, Vermouth Ros, Blanc and Rosé.