Imagine walking along a sun-drenched road in the heart of Sicily. On either side, ochre-coloured dry stone walls and, above them, proud, thorny figures silhouetted against a cobalt blue sky. These are the leaves of prickly pears, laden with fruits that shine like precious gems. This is not just a landscape; it is a snapshot of the Sicilian soul. A resilient, generous and sweet soul that Paesano has captured and preserved in its unmistakable Prickly Pear Liqueur, a true tribute to this treasure of the island.
A traveller who became king
Although today it is an undisputed symbol of Sicilian identity, the prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a traveller that has come from afar. Arriving on the island centuries ago from the Americas, it found such a perfect habitat in Sicily that it took deep root, becoming an integral part not only of the landscape, but also of the culture and daily life.
Its green leaves and colourful fruits – ranging from sunny yellow to sunset orange and deep purple red – dot the countryside, cliffs overlooking the sea and even the courtyards of houses. They are silent witnesses to stories, secrets and traditions. The ability of this fruit to thrive in arid conditions, requiring very little water, speaks to the tenacity and generosity of a land that knows how to give priceless wonders even when it seems to ask for little in return.
The secret of "Bastarduni": farming expertise and superior quality
For Paesano, excellence is non-negotiable. That's why we don't settle for just any prickly pear for our liqueur, but exclusively select the prized late variety known as 'Bastarduni'.
These fruits are not a coincidence, but the result of ancient farming wisdom, known as "scozzolatura". This traditional technique involves removing the plant's first flowers, forcing it to bloom a second time. This effort produces "Bastarduni": larger fruits with juicier flesh, fewer seeds and an extraordinarily rich and concentrated flavour profile. Ripening under the hot August sun, they become a true concentrate of sweetness and flavour. It is this pulp, which makes up almost 50% of our liqueur, that gives it a sweet, enveloping taste and an unmistakable aromatic strength, making every sip a unique experience.
A "food of the future" born from ethical agriculture
The prickly pear is not only a fruit with a glorious past, but is increasingly recognised globally as a 'food of the future'. Its remarkable nutritional properties, rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, are combined with incredible sustainability. It grows luxuriantly without the need for chemicals, respecting biodiversity, and its minimal water requirements make it a valuable ally against waste and for responsible agriculture.
Paesano proudly embraces this philosophy. Our decision to use only "Bastarduni" from ethical and organic Sicilian farms is not only a guarantee of quality, but a declaration of love and respect for our land and its cycles. We want to offer you a product that is good in every sense: for the palate, for your wellbeing and for the planet.
The essence of Sicily distilled into a liqueur
Paesano Prickly Pear Liqueur is much more than just an alcoholic beverage with 22% ABV. It is a sensory experience, a liquid story that encapsulates the deepest essence of Sicily. The high percentage of pure prickly pear pulp is a deliberate choice, making it a superior product, perfect to be enjoyed neat and cold to capture every single nuance of the fruit.
At the same time, its natural sweetness and strong character make it an incredibly versatile and surprising ingredient in the world of mixology. Bartenders and enthusiasts can finally add a touch of authentic Sicily to their cocktails, creating innovative, refined drinks with unique colours.
Paesano's Invitation: savour tradition
We invite you to discover Paesano Prickly Pear Liqueur not only with your palate, but with all your senses. It is a journey through the flavours and aromas of authentic Sicily, a tribute to an extraordinary fruit and to the artisan tradition that we cherish and share with infinite passion.
Tasting this liqueur means coming into contact with a history made of earth, sun, skilled hands and love for one's roots. It is an invitation to become part of our family.
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