A FAMILY ADVENTURE THAT BECAME LEGENDARY
The History of the Byrrh Brand
History & Sites - The History of the Byrrh Brand
THE ORIGINS
The Violet Family
This story begins humbly, like many others, but gradually transforms into an extraordinary family epic, marked by the determination, vision, and courage of its founders.
Around 1860, two young brothers, Simon and Pallade Violet, born into a modest family of five children and the sons of a muleteer, decided to leave their native village of Corsavy, nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains, to move to the Roussillon plain. Driven by the desire to provide a better future for their families and guided by a strong entrepreneurial spirit, they embark on a journey that will lead them toward new opportunities.
After many years of traveling and hard work, the two brothers finally settled in Thuir, a small but vibrant town, where they opened their first shop. This initial establishment marked the starting point of an extraordinary human and entrepreneurial adventure, where perseverance and passion became the foundations of a success destined to endure through generations.
FROM WINEMACKING INNOVATION TO THE CREATION OF THE BRAND
The Birth of Byrrh
With his deep knowledge of wines and remarkable tasting expertise, Simon Violet developed a unique formula. By blending fine Roussillon wines, flavoring them with carefully selected plants, and fortifying them with quinine bark, he created an original aperitif, marketed under the evocative name “Tonic and Hygienic Wine with Quinine.”
Faced with growing success, the Montpellier Order of Pharmacists took legal action against the Violet brothers, accusing them of unfair competition. The court then prohibited them from using the word “quinine,” considered a term reserved for pharmaceutical products.
On February 10, 1873, the BYRRH brand was officially registered at the Perpignan Commercial Court.
AN AMBITIOUS AND VISIONARY MODERNIZATION
The Peak of the Brand
After Simon Violet’s death in 1891, his son Lambert took over and ambitiously continued the expansion of the family business. Under his leadership, new cellars were built, and modern, cutting-edge facilities were established, reflecting the house’s dynamism and commitment to progress. Among these emblematic achievements is the majestic train hall designed by Gustave Eiffel, a symbol of an era of industrial innovation and boldness.
Thanks to this forward-looking vision, the company gained international renown and set several world records for storage capacity. This prosperous period culminated with the construction of the largest oak vat in the world, a true technical and artisanal feat, carried out under the direction of Lambert’s children, Simone and Jacques, who continued the legacy of excellence and innovation passed down through generations.
