The
Heritage
1892
Mandarine Napoléon liqueur dates back 1892. Its name originates from Napoléon Bonaparte. The story goes that macerated mandarins in cognac was a personal favorite of Napoléon. In fact, it was Napoléon’s physician, Antoine-Francois de Fourcroy, who first had the idea of macerating mandarins in alcohol and then blending the distillate with cognac. And indeed, the two were often said to have enjoyed a glass together.
19th century
During the 19th century a Belgian chemist, Louis Schmidt, discovered the recipe of Napoléon’s favorite drink in Fourcroy’s diary and decided to create a liqueur based on the recipe.
2009
In September 2009, De Kuyper bought Mandarine Napoléon from the Fourcroy family. Today, Mandarine Napoléon is a well-known liqueur, celebrated by bartenders all over the world. With its undisputed taste, it has won many international awards and is sold in more than 100 countries around the world.
2026
In 2026, Mandarine Napoléon joined the PAGÈS VEDRENNE Group, a subsidiary of Iconic Nectars. This acquisition marks a new chapter in the history of this legendary liqueur, with a commitment to preserving its unique heritage while further expanding its international presence. Backed by the PAGÈS VEDRENNE Group’s century-long expertise in maceration, distillation and the crafting of premium liqueurs, Mandarine Napoléon continues to showcase its exceptional savoir-faire to bartenders, spirits professionals and discerning consumers in more than 100 countries worldwide.
