Both companies are owned by Gruppo Campari. Averna was acquired in April as part of the larger acquisition of 100% of the share capital of Fratelli Averna SpA, the Italian spirit company owner of brands such as Limoncetta, Braulio and Grappa Frattina. The brand had been distributed hitherto in the UK by Instil Brands.

J. Wray & Nephew UK managing director Pietro Mattioni, said: “In light of the fast-growing popularity of bitters in the UK market, the addition of a product with such quality and heritage to our portfolio very much strengthens our proposition to the trade. We are delighted to add this great brand to our portfolio of premium spirits and to grow it to the size and scale it deserves in the UK market. We very much thank Instil Drinks Co for their continuous support and cooperation during the transition phase.”

Wray & Nephew is best known for its Jamaican rums, such as Appleton and Wray & Nephew Overproof. It also looks after Koko Kanu coconut rum, Bulldog gin and Espolón tequila.