Ischia is a volcanic island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, located at the northern end of the Gulf of Naples, about 30 kilometres from the city of Naples. It is almost entirely mountainous, with a lot of green tufa (green volcanic rock), and the highest peak is Mount Epomeo at 788 metres. The island enjoys the surrounding deep blue sea, a mild climate, full of glorious sunshine, and is particularly fertile, full of oak, Cyprus, almond, citrus, and olive trees as well as wine grapes. Without a doubt, it is the perfect place to make leafy liqueurs.
Ischia Sapori is the island's one and only liqueur factory. Dating back
to 1880, it is the Savastano family's true love. Their Limoncello,
Limonis, is the real deal, and a world away from the industrial product that
limoncello has become known for. But the show-stopper is Rucolino, the
locally famous Amaro made from the large leaf wild grown rocket. Now
celebrating 20 years of success, Rucolino is made from a closely guarded secret,
but we do know that in addition to rucola (rocket), citrus features in the mix,
lightening the flavour. In style terms, it's in the dark spectrum - not
orange/tangerine/citrus like Montenegro or Nonino Amaro - it's a dark Amaro, but
at the same time, it's not as heavy as Cynar, Averna or Rabarbaro either.
It's delicious, 30% alcohol and best served cold or on ice without
garnish.