OBITUARY – Robert J Cooper, 39

The man who created St. Germain passed away on April 25. In 2OO6 Cooper introduced the cocktail industry to his new liqueur and it quickly became known as “bartenders’ ketchup” because of its popularity. Cooper was from the family that owns Charles Jacquin et Cie, an old cordials and liqueurs house that helped introduce Chambord to the market. By his account, his father was dismissive when he suggested creating an elderflower liqueur like the ones he had seen in bars in London. The younger Cooper persisted, going so far as to leave the family business to pursue his dream. An eye-catching Art Deco-style bottle, sponsorship deals with mixologists, and innovative promotions saw St. Germain soon appearing on almost every cocktail menu across the country. In 2O12 Bacardi bought St Germain for an undisclosed sum.