From its French Caribbean origins to global cocktail essential, discover how this vibrant passion fruit liqueur transformed tropical mixology.
Passoa was created in 1985 by Rémy Cointreau in France, inspired by the tropical flavors of the French Caribbean. The liqueur's distinctive recipe combines passion fruit juice with a neutral spirit base.
The brand's development was driven by the growing popularity of exotic flavors in European markets during the 1980s. The name was chosen to evoke tropical paradise, while its distinctive red color came from natural fruit extracts.
By the 1990s, Passoa had established itself in the European market, particularly in France and the Netherlands. The brand expanded its reach through strategic marketing focused on nightlife and contemporary cocktail culture.
In 2016, Lucas Bols acquired Passoa in a joint venture with Rémy Cointreau, bringing new distribution channels and marketing expertise.
Passoa gained international recognition through its role in popular cocktails, particularly the Porn Star Martini, created by Douglas Ankrah in 2002. The liqueur became essential in the modern cocktail renaissance, especially in premium bars and nightclubs.
The brand's success has influenced the development of other tropical fruit liqueurs, establishing passion fruit as a key flavor in contemporary mixology.
Passoa's versatility has made it a staple in modern cocktail creation.
Porn Star Martini
The iconic mix of Passoa, vanilla vodka, passion fruit purée, and prosecco
Passion Fruit Caipirinha
Brazilian twist combining Passoa, cachaça, lime, and sugar
Passion Fruit Mojito
Tropical version with Passoa, white rum, mint, lime, and soda
Passoa Fizz
Refreshing blend of Passoa, prosecco, and fresh lime juice
Today, Passoa continues to innovate under Lucas Bols management, focusing on premium positioning and cocktail creativity. The brand has launched initiatives to support sustainable sourcing of passion fruit.
New product developments include limited editions and collaborations with renowned bartenders, while maintaining its position as the leading passion fruit liqueur globally.
Passoa remains the definitive passion fruit liqueur, bridging tropical tradition with contemporary cocktail culture.