Crafted with Sicilian blood oranges handpicked at their peak ripeness, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur exudes an unmistakable vibrancy and complexity that embodies the essence of Italy's citrus-rich traditions. This luxurious liqueur, masterfully created by Lesley Gracie, the mind behind Hendrick's Gin, captures the fragrant oils of whole blood oranges, blended with subtle hints of lemon and orange. The result is a velvety, sweet palate balanced by zesty tartness and a long, dry finish, all encapsulated in a beautifully designed Murano glass-inspired bottle. Whether enhancing classic cocktails, inspiring modern creations, or enjoyed as an aperitif, Solerno brings a radiant burst of Sicilian sunshine to every sip, making it the perfect addition to any refined drinks collection.
Process & Profile
Crafted exclusively in Sicily, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur embodies the vibrant essence of Sicilian blood oranges. The production process begins with handpicking Sanguinello blood oranges at the peak of ripeness during the short winter harvest season. The fruit's zest, pulp, and essential oils are captured through meticulous small-batch distillations in copper alembic stills, enhancing the liqueur's complexity. The distillation also incorporates Sicilian lemons, adding brightness and structure to the profile. Solerno is naturally clear, free of synthetic dyes, and sweetened with sugar beet sucrose for an authentic touch. Encased in a Murano glass-inspired bottle, this liqueur is as elegant as the spirit it holds.
Tasting Notes
Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur offers a multi-layered sensory experience:
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Nose: A bouquet of whole-fruit blood orange, orange blossom, and zesty lemon.
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Palate: Smooth and velvety, featuring rich blood orange flavors, balanced tartness, and subtle hints of raspberries and citrus.
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Finish: A long-lasting, dry, and elegantly bittersweet conclusion.
What Makes It Special
Solerno stands as the world's first blood orange liqueur, created by Lesley Gracie, the renowned master distiller behind Hendrick's Gin. Its uniqueness lies in the use of Sicilian blood oranges, whose striking crimson hue and bold, bittersweet flavor are intensified by the Mediterranean climate of Mount Etna's slopes. The blend of tradition and innovation, combined with the refined care of its distillation process, results in a liqueur celebrated for its vibrant citrus intensity and versatility in mixology. The luxurious Murano glass bottle design further pays homage to Italian artistry.
How to Enjoy
Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur's versatility makes it a delightful addition to any setting:
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Classic Cocktails: Mix into margaritas, cosmos, or replace triple sec in a sidecar for a twist.
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Modern Creations: Craft signature cocktails by pairing it with sparkling wine or gin.
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Aperitifs: Enjoy neat, over ice, or with a splash of soda and lime for a refreshing aperitivo.
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Culinary Pairings: Elevate desserts like chocolate mousse or fruit-based pastries with its bright citrus notes.
Whether sipping alone or sharing with friends, Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur brings a taste of Sicily to your glass, perfect for every occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur made from?
Solerno is crafted from Sicilian Sanguinello blood oranges, handpicked at peak ripeness, along with lemon and other citrus. The liqueur captures the essential oils of the oranges through three small-batch distillations in copper alembic stills, resulting in a vibrant, naturally flavored spirit.
What is the alcohol content of Solerno?
Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 40%, equivalent to 80 proof.
How should I serve Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur?
Solerno can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a versatile cocktail ingredient. It pairs well with gin, vodka, tequila, or sparkling wine. Popular uses include spritzes, margaritas, and modern twists on classics like the Old Fashioned.
Is Solerno artificially colored or sweetened?
No, Solerno is made without artificial dyes, and its color comes naturally from the blood oranges. It is sweetened with sucrose from sugar beets, not corn syrup, ensuring a balanced, non-cloying taste.
What distinguishes Solerno from other orange liqueurs?
Unlike Cointreau or Grand Marnier, Solerno focuses exclusively on Sicilian blood oranges, offering a more citrus-forward, tart, and complex profile. It also avoids the stickiness of limoncello while delivering a brighter, drier finish.
Where is Solerno produced?
The liqueur is distilled and bottled in Sicily, Italy, using locally sourced blood oranges and traditional methods.
Can Solerno be used in cooking or desserts?
Yes, it adds a vibrant citrus note to desserts like sorbet, cheesecake, or vanilla ice cream. A drizzle can elevate fruit salads or glazes for meats.
What is the shelf life of Solerno after opening?
Like most spirits, Solerno can be stored indefinitely if kept sealed and away from direct sunlight or heat. For optimal flavor, consume within 1–2 years of opening.
Who created Solerno Blood Orange Liqueur?
Master Distiller Lesley Gracie, known for inventing Hendrick's Gin, developed Solerno as the world's first blood orange liqueur.