Villa Massa Limoncello

Villa Massa Limoncello is a 30% ABV lemon liqueur made by Villa Massa on Italy's Sorrento peninsula from the peels of Limone Ovale di Sorrento lemons. Based on the Massa family's recipe from the 1890s, the liqueur was brought to the world market in 1991 through the efforts of brothers Sergio and Stefano Massa. The producer states that Villa Massa was the first company to sell limoncello worldwide.

Which lemons are used?

Limone Ovale di Sorrento is a lemon variety grown only on the Sorrento peninsula and the island of Capri, holding IGP (protected geographical indication) certification. Grown in volcanic soil under traditional pergolas made from chestnut wood and straw covers, the lemons are picked by hand one by one. The liqueur is made by cold-infusing the thin peels of these lemons; it contains no artificial colouring or flavouring.

What does Villa Massa Limoncello taste like?

The nose shows bright, vivid citrus notes reminiscent of freshly peeled lemon. On the palate, fresh lemon aroma leads; sweetness and lemon's tartness are balanced, and the citrus taste leaves a palate-cleansing sensation. The producer describes the taste as the fresh lemon flavour of an aromatic Sorrento garden.

How is it served and what does it pair with?

In Italy it is traditionally drunk neat, ice-cold at around -7 °C; a limoncello spritz can also be made with tonic or prosecco. It pairs well with fruity desserts such as lemon tart, fruit salad and ice cream, and offers a refreshing close after a meal centred on fish and seafood.