Based in Ventura County, California, Ventura makes limoncello year-round from SoCal lemons and produces orangecello from local blood oranges on a seasonal basis. (A limoncello crema is also made.) We sampled the two main products. Thoughts follow.

Both are 58 proof. No artificial colors or flavors added.

Ventura Limoncello Originale – Cloudy yet pale yellow, like a strong lemonade. The nose is pure lemon. The body, quite sweet with a moderate tartness underneath. Easy to sip, and not overly bracing. Slightly gummy body. Some green notes — think lemongrass or key limes — round out the finish of an otherwise simple, very pleasant limoncello. A- / $20

Ventura Orangecello Blood Orange – Slightly more orange in color than the limoncello. The nose starts off with fresh oranges, but becomes a little funky and skunky as you continue to inhale. The recipe here isn’t as successful, with an earthy and almost sweaty character to it that mars the otherwise sweet and sour effect. Musty on the finish. C / $15 (375ml)

venturalimoncello.com

Ventura Limoncello Originale

$20

9

Rating

9.0/10