Limoncello () is an Italian lemon liqueur mainly produced in southern Italy, especially in the regions around the Gulf of Naples, the Amalfi Coast, and Sicily. It is the second-most popular liqueur in Italy and is traditionally served chilled as an after-dinner digestif. It is also a popular homemade liqueur, with various recipes available online and in print.
Limoncello is made from the zest of and usually has a slightly Turbidity appearance, which originates from suspended small essential oil droplets.
Traditionally, limoncello is made from the zest of Femminello St. Teresa , also known as Sorrento or Sfusato lemons. Lemon zest, or peels without the pith, is steeped in rectified spirit until the oil is released. The resulting yellow liquid is then mixed with simple syrup. Varying the sugar-to-water ratio and the temperature affects the clarity, viscosity, and flavor. It has a slightly turbid appearance, which originates from the presence of small (approximately 100 nanometers) essential oil droplets suspended in the drink. Opaque limoncello is the result of spontaneous Emulsion (otherwise known as the ouzo effect) of the sugar syrup and extracted lemon oils.
Commercial production was about 15 million liters in 2003.
It can also be served as a spritz by mixing it with Prosecco & Lemonade or soda water. With Limoncello originating from the Amalfi Coast, it is sometimes known as an Amalfi spritz.
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It has a sweeter, softer taste and is sometimes described as orangecello |
sharper, slightly more bitter twist than the classic |
milder, more delicate liqueur |
adds bitterness and complexity |
vibrant color and fragrant, fruity taste |
infuse sweetness and distinctive fruitiness. Kiwi is sometimes sweetened with honey |
spiced, wintery profile |
spicy, warming liqueur |
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