Story: Maurizio Russo | Campania
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The Amalfi lemon (Sfusato Amalfitano) - origin and characteristics
Only the famous Amalfi lemon, known as Limone Costa d'Amalfi IGP or Sfusato Amalfitano in Italian, is used for Maurizio Russo's limoncello. This lemon variety grows near the coast on the steep, terraced slopes of the Amalfi Coast - some of these terraces are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climatic conditions there are ideal for the fruit. Sfusato Amalfi lemons are characterized by a thick, light yellow skin and a high juice content (around 27-28%). They are extremely aromatic, with an intense lemon note, and have hardly any seeds. Unlike many other varieties, their taste is comparatively mild and pleasantly sweet and fruity. These unique properties - lots of aroma and low acidity - characterize the taste of Maurizio Russo Limoncello.

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Traditional production process
Maurizio Russo processes Amalfi lemons into limoncello according to a traditional family recipe. Immediately after harvesting, usually in the early hours of the morning, the lemons are peeled and only the peel (zest) is processed. The distillers soak these peels in high-proof alcohol and leave them to macerate for several days. This maceration releases the essential oils and aromas from the peel, gently transferring the scent and taste of the Amalfi lemon into the drink. At the end of the infusion time, the lemony essence is traditionally mixed with water and sugar until the typical sweet and aromatic limoncello is created (the exact mixing ratios are a well-kept family secret). It is important for the quality that the production is carried out completely without artificial additives.

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Quality characteristics of Limoncello from Maurizio Russo
Maurizio Russo attaches great importance to quality and originality. Limoncello is produced according to a traditional family recipe that has been cultivated for generations. The following features characterize the quality of the products:

Original Amalfi lemon (IGP): only Sfusato Amalfi lemons (Limone Costa d'Amalfi IGP) are used. The IGP seal of quality guarantees the protected origin of the fruit from the Amalfi Coast.

Traditional recipe: Production follows a centuries-old family tradition that is meticulously handed down. This keeps the limoncello as close as possible to its original, authentic taste.

Natural processing: The recipe does not use any artificial flavorings or preservatives. All flavors come exclusively from the real lemon peel.

Small batches and craftsmanship: Production is carried out by hand in small quantities to ensure consistent quality. Each bottle reflects the care and passion of the Russo family.

This combination of high-quality raw material (the sun-kissed Amalfi lemon) and traditional craftsmanship gives Maurizio Russo's limoncello its clear color, intense lemon aroma and genuine taste. The result is a limoncello that preserves the heritage of the Amalfi Coast in the glass. - Gerardo [TS06/25]