Flavour First: Imme Ermgassen on Crafting Botivo

In the latest episode of The Food Talk Show, host Ollie Lloyd is joined by Imme Ermgassen, a co-founder of Botivo, a brand reshaping the non-alcoholic drinks landscape. Imme shares the intriguing backstory of Botivo, which diverges from the typical narratives surrounding alcohol-free drinks. “Botivo was born from pleasure and hedonism, not from the world of moderation,” she explains. This comes to life on Botivo's bottle, which has a vibrant yellow wax seal and artistic label adorned with joyful, diverse characters. These whimsical figures represent a lively celebration, reflecting the brand's commitment to inclusivity and the pleasure of indulgence.

Botivo is crafted on Lannock Farm in Hertfordshire, where co-founder Sam Paget Stevenson and his team handcraft each batch. Imme describes Botivo as a “British big-sipping botanical aperitivo” and highlights the brand's commitment to quality and flavour. “We are the only drink in the category which has no flavourings, essences, or preservatives,” she states, underscoring the brand's dedication to doing this with the love and attention needed to create a truly special product. This focus on authenticity results in complex taste profiles that rival premium crafted alcoholic beverages. Imme adds, “When you look at the reviews, the reaction is intense,” with many consumers declaring it “the best drink in the world.”

Sustainability is another cornerstone of Botivo's mission. Imme emphasises that while the product is healthy and sustainably minded, the primary focus is on delivering a remarkable taste experience. “We believe that taste is the priority,” she states, reflecting the brand’s philosophy that quality should never be compromised. 

Imme envisions Botivo as a brand that fosters inclusivity, where everyone can enjoy a crafted beverage, regardless of their alcohol preferences. “I want Botivo to be the bottle at every dinner party,” she says, highlighting the brand’s aspiration to unite people in shared experiences. 

Botivo's innovative approach includes its marketing, which often features a giant yellow piano, challenging the notion that sampling experiences are generally dull. At festivals, entertainers perform while attendees gather to enjoy the drinks and often burst into song. This engaging approach highlights the brand's playful spirit and commitment to creating memorable interactions, making Botivo stand out in the non-alcoholic beverage market.

The episode concludes with Imme sharing exciting plans for Botivo’s future, including upcoming limited-edition launches and collaborations with renowned brands. She expresses her commitment to maintaining a focused strategy prioritising quality and taste over rapid expansion. As Botivo grows, Imme’s insights reveal a brand poised to redefine what it means to enjoy sophisticated, alcohol-free beverages, blending authentic flavours, sustainability, and a sense of community in every bottle.