I have always been fascinated by the work of Moon Import and by the mystery surrounding the company and his father, Pepi Mongiardino.
Off course, I knew that Moon Import was based in Genoa and on planet earth, I also knew that the company was responsible for creating about 30 amazing whiksy and rum collections.
Finally, I was aware that the company was an Italian Gentleman called Pepi Mongiardino.
About 2 years ago, I needed specific information relating to a bottle of 1940 rum from the west indies. Without too much hope, I was sending an email at the general address of the company (info@…).
I was surprised and rather honoured to receive an email from the Maestro himself.
The picture of Pepi Mongiardino was slowly emerging.
As I was travelling to Nice with my video recording equipment, I did send an email to Mister Mongiardino asking him if we could meet up to do an interview?
I did not believe this wish would be granted. As I was driving in the narrow streets of Antibes around 4 PM on a sunny Tuesday, my phone did start playing my favourite (yet boring) ring tone…on the other side of the line was Mister Mongiardino himself. Oh boy…
I did park the car to pick the phone. Mister Mongiardino was granting an interview.
The next stop was Genova, about 3 hours’ drive from there.
When I arrived in the beautiful office of the Piazza Delle Fontane Marose I was invited to wait into the office of Mister Mongiardino.
Few minutes after Mister Mongiardino was answering my question.
I have asked many questions about the origin of the company, the circumstances of the creation of Moon Import. The philosophy, the quality approach the selection of label and finally the links with Silvano Samaroli.
The original interview is 1h20 and we did cut the document to make it shorter and not too technical.
Thanks again to Mister Mongiardino.