Unico Zelo Mandocello by Applewood Distillery

Applewood Distillery, in collaboration with Unico Zelo, introduces a refreshing innovation in the world of spirits with its latest creation, Unico Zelo Mandocello. This handcrafted liqueur is a celebration of Australian citrus, specifically the dekapon mandarins sourced from the Riverland, known for their unmatched juiciness and size. As a leading figure in sustainable spirits, Unico Zelo’s venture into Mandocello follows their successful venture into limoncello, marking their ongoing commitment to sustainability and excellence.

• Crafting Sustainability: The Journey of Mandocello

The creation of Unico Zelo Mandocello represents a journey of sustainability and innovation. Laura and Brendan Carter, the creative minds behind this unique liqueur, hand-peeled a tonne of dekopon mandarins. These fruits, deemed too small or visually unappealing for the consumer market, were given a new lease on life, transforming potential waste into a delightful spirit. The mandarin peels were then steeped in grape-based alcohol for six weeks, with a final touch of Queensland sugar added before the bottling process, ensuring a perfect balance of sweetness.

• The Riverland’s Citrus in a Bottle

Unico Zelo Mandocello is a vibrant testament to the rich citrus heritage of the Riverland region. By utilizing dekapon mandarins, this liqueur captures the essence of the area’s fruitful bounty. The process not only highlights the potential of local produce but also reinforces the importance of sustainable practices in the spirits industry.

• Refreshing and Vibrant: Tasting Notes

Unico Zelo Mandocello offers a tasting experience that is both refreshing and vibrant. Its profile is characterized by the sweet and tangy flavours of Riverland citrus, balanced beautifully with the depth provided by the grape-based alcohol and the subtle sweetness from Queensland sugar. This liqueur is an ideal ingredient for crafting the ultimate summer beverage – the Mando Spritz.

• The Ultimate Summer Beverage: Mando Spritz Recipe

To enjoy the full essence of Unico Zelo Mandocello, transform it into a Mando Spritz:

• • Mix Unico Zelo Mandocello with soda, tonic, or lemonade in a glass filled with ice.
  • Garnish with a fresh slice of mandarin or a sprig of mint for an extra refreshing touch.
  • This simple yet delightful concoction serves as the perfect summer refresher, embodying the spirit of Australian summers.

• A Sustainable Spirit: Beyond Mandocello

Unico Zelo’s foray into sustainable spirits doesn’t end with Mandocello. Their commitment to utilizing imperfect fruits and transforming them into exquisite liqueurs is evident in their previous work with limoncello and continues to inspire their future projects. This approach not only results in unique and flavourful spirits but also contributes positively to reducing food waste.

• Celebrating Innovation and Sustainability

Unico Zelo Mandocello, brought to life by Applewood Distillery, is more than just a liqueur; it’s a celebration of innovation, sustainability, and the rich citrus bounty of Australia’s Riverland. Through the meticulous handcrafting process, sustainable sourcing, and dedication to quality, this vibrant liqueur stands as a testament to what can be achieved when creativity meets environmental responsibility. Whether enjoyed in a Mando Spritz or savoured on its own, Unico Zelo Mandocello invites you to experience the ultimate taste of summer, all while supporting sustainable practices in the spirit industry.

Tasting Notes and Food Pairings

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Rich and vibrant, featuring the unmistakable scent of Riverland dekapon mandarins, complemented by subtle hints of citrus flowers and a sweet underlay.
• Palate: The initial taste reveals a delightful sweetness of Queensland sugar, balanced by the tangy and refreshing zest of mandarins. A complex layering of citrus flavours, with a soft backdrop of grape-based alcohol warmth.
• Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a satisfying sweetness that invites another sip, leaving a memorable impression of fresh mandarin and a slight herbal note.
• Texture: Silky and velvety, perfectly encapsulating the essence of handcrafted liqueur with a body that’s both rich and refreshing.

Food Pairings

• Seafood: Pairs beautifully with light and fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns or a citrusy ceviche, where the mandarin flavours can enhance the sweetness of the seafood.
• Cheese Boards: Ideal with a selection of soft cheeses, including goat cheese or brie, where the creamy texture and tangy profiles meet the sweet citrus notes of the Mandocello.
• Desserts: Complements fruit-based desserts, particularly those incorporating citrus or berries. Try with a lemon tart, orange sorbet, or a fresh berry pavlova for a harmonious blend of sweet and tart.
• Poultry: A delightful accompaniment to roasted chicken or duck dishes, especially those prepared with a citrus glaze or marinade, where the Mandocello can accentuate the dish’s flavours.
• Asian Cuisine: The sweet and tangy profile pairs well with spicy Asian dishes, such as Thai mango salad or Vietnamese spring rolls, providing a refreshing contrast to the heat.

Key Features:

• Handcrafted Excellence: Meticulously produced by hand, ensuring a high-quality liqueur that captures the essence of craftsmanship.
• Exclusive Riverland Citrus: Made from the juiciest and largest dekapon mandarins sourced from South Australia’s Riverland region, offering a unique taste.
• Refreshing and Vibrant: Characterised by its refreshing zestiness and vibrant flavour profile, perfect for invigorating your palate.
• Sustainable Spirit: Part of Unico Zelo’s commitment to sustainability, utilising imperfect fruit that would otherwise go to waste, promoting environmental responsibility.
• Rich Mandarin Taste: The liqueur boasts a rich and tangy mandarin flavour, balanced with a subtle sweetness from Queensland sugar, creating a perfectly rounded taste.
• Versatile Mixer: Its unique flavour profile makes it an excellent base for a variety of cocktails, including the signature Mando Spritz, enhancing any drink with its citrusy zest.
• No Artificial Additives: Made with natural ingredients without the use of artificial sweeteners or flavours, ensuring a pure and authentic taste experience.
• Smooth Finish: Enjoy a silky, smooth finish with every sip, a hallmark of its premium quality and artisanal production process.
• Elegant Bottle Design: Presented in a stylishly designed bottle that reflects the liqueur’s premium nature and the brand’s attention to detail.

Specifications:

• Type: Liqueur
• Size: 500mL
• Alc/Vol: 20%
• Country: Australia
• State: South Australia
• Brand Name: Unico Zelo
• Closure: Screw cap
• Style: Mandocello, a mandarin-flavoured liqueur, noted for its handcrafted production, use of Riverland citrus, and sustainable practices.