Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1545793
10 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 10 JULY 2026 CULTURE The organic story of Gozo's For generations, the Vassallo family has cultivated Gozo's fertile San Blas Valley, producing certified organic ESTLED in the picturesque San Blas Valley in Nadur, Gozo, San Blas Groves is a family-run or- ganic farm where generations of tradition continue to flourish. Farmed by the Vassallo fam- ily for generations, the valley remains home to citrus trees planted by Mark Vassallo's an- cestors, some of which still pro- duce fruit today. The valley's unique location, close to the sea and blessed with fertile soil and traditional terraced fields, provides ide- al conditions for growing ex- ceptional citrus. Today, Mark Vassallo continues this family legacy with a commitment to certified organic farming, cul- tivating fruit without synthetic pesticides or chemical fertilisers while protecting the land for fu- ture generations. What began as a hobby soon evolved into an award-winning artisanal business. Using lem- ons harvested from the family's groves, Mark first started craft- ing homemade limoncello for family and friends. Encouraged by the enthusiastic response, he transformed his passion into San Blas Groves, producing pre- mium 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 arti- ficial colouring and a focus on preserving the natural character of each ingredient. The collec- tion now includes Limoncello, Sugar-Free Limoncello, Aran- cello, Mandarincello, Grape- fruit Liqueur, Citrus Blend Li- queur, Gingerello, Pomegranate Liqueur and Mulberry Liqueur. Among the most distinctive products is the Mulberry Li- queur, made from fruit harvest- ed 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 pro- duction. Beyond its range of liqueurs, San Blas Groves is passionate about preserving Gozo's ag- ricultural heritage. Through participation in local fairs, food events and collaborations, Mark Vassallo continues to share the story of traditional farming, or- ganic cultivation and the rich flavours that emerge from one Fresh Gozo oranges are an integral part of the process