A Toast to Tradition

The roots of the Ellul family story trace back to 1837 when textile merchant Vincenzo Formosa, originally from Victoria, Gozo, purchased a distinguished townhouse at 81, Old Theatre Street in Valletta. In 1846, Vincenzo married Ursola Galea, and they had two daughters, Giovanna and Rosaria. Years later, in 1890, Giovanna married Fortunato Ellul, a talented wines and spirits merchant who later became the founder of Ellul Wines & Spirits. Sadly, Giovanna passed away while giving birth to their only son, Antonio. Fortunato then married her sister, Rosaria, though they had no children together.

Fortunato, known for his craft in wines and spirits, opened his first shop on Merchant Street in 1878, producing celebrated spirits like anisette and a special drink known as “Maxxata,” which earned him the affectionate nickname “Tal-Maxxata” among locals. Later, he expanded with a second shop on St. Lucy’s Street, managed by his only son, Antonio.

Following Antonio’s early passing, his son Carmelo took up the family business, later joined by his brothers Fortunato and Joseph. Under Joseph’s ownership, the business grew, adding confectionery and expanding further. Today, Ellul Wines & Spirits remains a cherished part of the family’s heritage, currently run by Andrew Ellul, who also co-founded Casa Ellul, a luxury boutique hotel in Valletta. Inspired by the family’s rich legacy, Andrew honors Fortunato’s legacy by blending tradition with innovation, ensuring the Ellul name remains synonymous with quality and heritage across each new generation.