Quattro Gatti Gin Named Official Gin of the Venice Biennale

An Italian gin with roots in the Umbrian countryside has secured one of the most prestigious cultural partnerships in the drinks world, becoming the Official Gin of the 61st International Art Exhibition, La Biennale di Venezia.

Quattro Gatti Gin, founded by the Mordant family, will be available at cafes and restaurants across the Biennale’s two main venues, the Giardini and the Arsenale, as well as at official events during the professional preview days this May.

It joins Bulgari, illy, and American Express as the only brands to hold official sponsor status at the Biennale, and marks the first time a spirits brand has featured among their number.

The Mordants’ connection to the Biennale runs deep. Simon served as Australian Commissioner for the country’s pavilions in 2013 and 2015, and the family played a central role in completing Australia’s permanent pavilion in the Giardini.

Their move to Umbria during Covid provided the inspiration for the gin itself, with wild juniper growing on their land forming the backbone of both expressions, Classico and Olive Grove.

“There’s a lot of juniper everywhere,” Catriona explained, “and the Umbrian juniper is considered the best.” The family’s ambition was clear from the outset: to create a distinctly Italian gin.

As part of the partnership, Quattro Gatti has also created an exclusive signature cocktail for the exhibition, described by Simon as “something they’ll find very refreshing” during the day, though the recipe remains under wraps for now.

A wonderful story of gin, art, and a family’s love of Italy, and a reminder of the remarkable places the gin category continues to reach.