APEROL Spritz? So last year, Signore e signori. Still we are sure an Adriatic of the stuff will be downed at this summer’s Festa Italiana, returning to Cathedral Gardens (July 13-15) after its huge hit debut in 2017.
Yet ToM will be toasting this dynamic celebration of Italy and all its flavours with one of the best – pure unadulterated ‘limone’ via its ultimate manifestation, iconic lemon liqueur Limoncello di Capri. And yes, it does make a Capri Spritz as sunny as that idyllic island in the Gulf of Naples. For a visual aperitivo let Matty White’s Fodder video pour you one.
Our sudden conversion to THE drink of this summer was fuelled by a Limoncello di Capri launch at Salvi’s Terrazza Bar in the Corn Exchange Atrium. Neapolitan Maurizio Cecco, owner of the Salvi’s portfolio of authentic Italian deli/diners, is organiser of the Festa, showcasing all that’s artisan and authentic from his native land.
This particular 100% naturallimoncello fits the bill perfectly, produced only from certified, sun-drenched Sorrento and Capri lemons.
Limoncello was first created on Capri over a century ago by hotel proprietor Vincenza Canale, using the lemons from her garden and it was her descendants who continued to develop the product, and eventually trademarked the name Limoncello Di Capri.
Using traditional methods, the lemon peel is carefully removed and infused in grain alcohol, imparting a delicious lemon flavour with none of the sourness usually associated with lemon juice.
The Capri Spritz is Limoncello Di Capri served over ice with premium tonic and Prosecco Brut and garnished with strawberry and fresh mint – an utterly gorgeous, zingy, warm ray of sunshine in a glass.
As nights get lighter, those who can’t wait until the Festa’s Capri Spritz Bar opens in July can visit Salvi’s at Corn Exchange or John Dalton Street where their lemony tipple awaits.
For full information and updates on the Festa Italiana Manchester website. and get the lowdown on Maurizio Cecco’s Manchester in ToM’s latest Tasting Notes.
