Finest Italian-inspired Spirits for Some 60 APPMA Members

The group was divided into two smaller groups to accommodate the intimate setting of the distillery, where they were introduced to the intricate process of crafting small-batch limoncello. This production takes place in Schutz IBCs and utilizes locally grown citrus fruits sourced from the Riverina region. The company processes a significant volume of lemons, receiving 350–700 kilos weekly from two trusted suppliers. After zesting the lemons to extract their essence for the spirits, Ambra ensures nothing goes to waste—remaining fruit is utilized in their restaurant and distributed to local kitchens across Adelaide, minimizing waste while supporting the community.

Ambra’s iconic limoncello bottles, imported from Italy, are filled and labeled on-site using a semi-automatic labeling machine. This upgrade, a leap from the previous manual process, has been transformative for the business, according to Iovino.

Established in 1998, Ambra Limoncello pioneered the limoncello market in Australia. Over 25 years, the company has expanded its range to include five distinct variants: Limoncello, Orange, Cappuccino, Limoncello Cream, and Blood Orange Aperitif—all of which were enjoyed during the group tasting.

Ambra also produces gin, distilled in a traditional copper still, with four unique flavors: Citrus, Watermelon & Mint, Blood Orange, and Navy. Guests sampled a tasting flight of these gins, showcasing the brand's innovative approach to flavor.

The facility features a wet lab dedicated to developing gin botanicals and creating single distillates using a mini still. This experimental space allows the team to perfect their recipes by blending distillates to achieve precise flavor profiles for each liter of ethanol. Iovino emphasized the lab's role as a creative hub for testing and refining new ideas.

Ambra's award-winning spirits have garnered widespread recognition, a fact that impressed the visiting APPMA members. The evening provided not only an enjoyable experience but also a valuable opportunity for networking among industry peers.