St Raphaël

Born in France at the end of the 19th century, St Raphaël is much more than an aperitif – it is a symbol of French style and elegance. Its story begins in 1830, when Dr. Juppet, a pharmacist passionate about medicinal plants, created a tonic drink based on wine and cinchona bark, inspired by natural remedies of the time. It is said that during his research he invoked the Archangel Raphael – protector of sight – to overcome temporary blindness. From that episode came the name “Saint Raphaël,” destined to become legendary.

Over the following decades, the aperitif conquered France and Europe thanks to its perfect balance of sweetness, strength, and aromatic complexity. It became a favorite in the Parisian cafés of the Belle Époque, the bistros of the countryside, and the salons of artists, a symbol of refined yet approachable taste. In the 1950s and 1960s, with its iconic slender bottle and glamorous advertising campaigns, St Raphaël became one of France’s most elegant and recognizable aperitif brands.

Today, part of the La Martiniquaise Group, St Raphaël renews its heritage with the “Le Quina” line – a contemporary interpretation of the great quinquina aperitifs. The range highlights wine, mistelle, and fine botanicals, blending tradition and sophistication. With Le Quina Rouge and Le Quina Ambré, St Raphaël continues to celebrate the timeless art of the French aperitif, where heritage meets modern elegance.