For the first issue of our revamped High Spirits newsletter, we asked Lily Geiger, Founder of Figlia, to discuss where her brand is today and where she’s taking it next.
DA: When you set out to develop a non-alc brand, you didn’t aim to mimic the taste of a particular alcoholic drink. So, how did you land on your current flavor profile?
LG: I worked with a recipe developer who understood what I was looking for. They used a blend of extracts and juices to get to the perfect taste/flavor that felt sophisticated without being triggering for those who are in recovery.
DA: You’re stocked in over 400 locations, including some world class bars and restaurants. What are some of your favorite restaurants that serve Figlia?
LG: While it’s so hard to pick favorites, I’d say: Blue Hill Farm, French Laundry, Bell’s Los Alamos, Stissing House, Atoboy, Lodi, and Farmshop.
DA: What’s the best way you’ve seen Figlia served by a mixologist?
LG: One of my favorite Figlia spritzes ever was at Pinch Chinese in Soho, because they used a tea-infused syrup. I’ve been trying to recreate it ever since!
DA: What’s your favorite way to enjoy Figlia in the summertime?
LG: I enjoy an ice-cold Frizzante poured over ice!
DA: Outside of the aperitivo category, what are some of your favorite alcohol alternatives?
LG: Casamara Club, Visitor Beer, and Unified Ferments!
DA: What is the latest mocktail trend we should be aware of?
LG: Pouring non-alc aperitivo over ice cream + sorbet for the summer.
DA: What do you think is next for the alcohol alternatives industry? Where will the industry be in 10 years?
LG: Hopefully, in 10 years, non-alc options won’t be left to the back of the menu and will be available at all restaurants, bars, grocers, etc.
DA: Any plans for the future of Figlia you’re able to share?
LG: We’re working on updates to our website to make it easier to find us and browse, more events, more stockists, and developing new flavors 😉
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Dry Atlas is your guide to the world of alcohol alternatives. We maintain the world’s largest directory of non-alcoholic spirits, wines, beers, and more to help you discover options you’ll love. We also publish High Spirits, the weekly newsletter that helps open-minded drinkers like you learn more about non-alc. Our goal is to demystify alcohol alternatives so you can navigate them with ease to pursue a happier, healthier life.
