Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545759
The Organic Story of Gozo's San Blas Groves N estled in the picturesque San Blas Valley in Nadur, Gozo, San Blas Groves is a family-run organic farm where generations of tradition continue to flourish. Farmed by the Vassallo family for generations, the valley remains home to citrus trees planted by Mark Vassallo's ancestors, some of which still produce fruit today. The valley's unique location, close to the sea and blessed with fertile soil and traditional terraced fields, provides ideal conditions for growing exceptional citrus. Today, Mark Vassallo continues this family legacy with a commitment to certified organic farming, cultivating fruit without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers while protecting the land for future generations. What began as a hobby soon evolved into an award-winning artisanal business. Using lemons harvested from the family's groves, Mark first started crafting homemade limoncello for family and friends. Encouraged by the enthusiastic response, he transformed his passion into San Blas Groves, producing premium handcrafted liqueurs that celebrate the authentic flavours of Gozo. Every bottle is produced in small batches using traditional methods. Fruit is harvested and prepared by hand, with no artificial colouring and a focus on preserving the natural character of each ingredient. The collection now includes Limoncello, Sugar-Free Limoncello, Arancello, Mandarincello, Grapefruit Liqueur, Citrus Blend Liqueur, Gingerello, Pomegranate Liqueur and Mulberry Liqueur. Among the most distinctive products is the Mulberry Liqueur, made from fruit harvested from a remarkable mulberry tree that has stood in San Blas Valley for more than a century. The tree has become a symbol of the farm, producing fruit with a flavour that cannot easily be replicated elsewhere. San Blas Groves has earned national recognition, including the People's Choice Award at the Premju Ġieħ l-Artiġjanat Malti, celebrating its dedication to quality, craftsmanship and authentic Maltese artisanal production. Beyond its range of liqueurs, San Blas Groves is passionate about preserving Gozo's agricultural heritage. Through participation in local fairs, food events and collaborations, Mark Vassallo continues to share the story of traditional farming, organic cultivation and the rich flavours that emerge from one of Gozo's most beautiful valleys. For visitors seeking authentic organic produce with a genuine farm-to- bottle story, San Blas Groves offers a taste of Gozo's landscape, history and craftsmanship in every bottle. For generations, the Vassallo family has cultivated Gozo's fertile San Blas Valley, producing certified organic citrus that today forms the heart of San Blas Groves' award- winning handcrafted artisanal liqueurs.