#FOOD: ITALIAN COCKTAIL FESTIVAL REVOLUTION RUNS OCTOBER 6-12, 2025

The Italian Trade Agency in Toronto is proud to announce the launch of the inaugural Italian Cocktail Revolution, a week-long celebration showcasing Italy’s finest spirits and cocktail culture. From October 6 to 12, 2025, Torontonians and industry professionals will experience an unforgettable journey into the
world of Italian mixology across 10 of Toronto’s top cocktail bars.

The event kicks off on Monday, October 6 with an exclusive launch event and masterclasses designed for mixologists, hospitality leaders, media and influencers. Hosted by James Grant, award-winning Canadian mixologist, alongside guest experts from Toronto and Italy— including the head bartender of Florence’s Locale Firenze, ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2025 —the sessions will explore Italian cocktail traditions, innovative mixing techniques, and the distinct qualities of premium Italian spirits.

Following the launch, from October 7 to 12, participating bars across Toronto will feature bespoke Italian-inspired cocktail menus and immersive speakeasy-style experiences. Guests will have the opportunity to discover the artistry, heritage, and craftsmanship behind iconic Italian spirits: Caffo, Cocchi, Compagnia dei Caraibi, Crucolo, Favignana Gin, Luxardo, Nonino, Poli, Rupes and Varnelli.

Event Highlights:
Oct. 6 – Italian Spirits in Cocktails Masterclass (1:00 pm – Fairmont Royal York,
Confederation Rooms 5 & 6, Main Mezzanine Level)

● Led by James Grant, alongside renowned Toronto bartenders Gianluca Passuello (Bar Compton) and Nick Kennedy (Civil Liberties), this session explores what makes Italian spirits unique and exciting in the cocktail world. The class will cover techniques, history, and flavour profiles, culminating in a guided tasting of premium Italian spirits from participating producers.

Oct 7 – Italian Bartending in the Modern Age Masterclass (1:00 pm – Fairmont Royal York, Confederation Rooms 5 & 6, Main Mezzanine Level)

● Led by the head bartender of Locale Firenze, one of Florence’s most celebrated cocktail bars and ranked among the World’s 50 Best Bars in 2025, this session explores the evolution of modern Italian cocktail culture. Participants will gain insight into how Italian bartending has influenced today’s global cocktail scene, innovative ways to incorporate Italian spirits in contemporary cocktails, and an inside look at Locale Firenze’s acclaimed bar program.

Oct. 7-12 – Italian Cocktail Week at Toronto’s Top Bars
● Featured venues: Mordecai (Nonino), Mother (Crucolo), Library Bar (Favignana Gin), No Vacancy (Caffo), Civil Works (Cocchi), Crybaby (Luxardo), Cocktail Bar (Compagnia dei Caraibi), Gift Shop (Poli), Vinoteca Pompette (Rupes), Clockwork (Varnelli)
● Each venue showcasing one premium Italian spirit in signature cocktails “This first edition of the Italian Cocktail Revolution brings together ten of Italy’s finest spirits producers with 10 of Toronto’s top mixologists, creating signature cocktails that showcase Italian spirits,” said Carlo Angelo Bocchi, the Italian trade commissioner for Canada. “Canada is one of the most advanced and highly regulated markets for spirits, with imports reaching $1.5 billion in 2024. Italy ranks sixth among exporters at $55 million and a 4.5 per cent market share, growing 5 per cent from last year and 55 per cent since 2019.

These numbers highlight the potential of Italian spirits, built on quality, creativity and a commitment to sustainability. With this event, we want to give professionals and consumers an experience that celebrates the excellence and versatility of Made in Italy. Thanks to authentic products where tradition meets innovation, Italy continues to establish itself as a trendsetter and leader on the global stage.”