The fragrance of Sicily can be found in the orange Mandarinetto, a variation of Sicilian limoncello, but made with citrus scented tangerines from the island's gardens.
Although the preparation technique is the same, the mandarinetto differs from the limoncello because of the use of cinnamon in its production phase, an Arabic tradition, dating from when they brought the use of spices to the island.
Unlike the limoncello, the mandarinetto is characterized by a slightly bitter taste, diffused by the sweet cinnamon.
An ancient Sicilian tradition says that the mandarinetto should be offered to the fiancé and his family, when he comes to ask for the bride's hand in marriage.
