The History of Chinotto di Savona: A Refreshing Tale

 

The long history of chinotto abounds in secrets and legends – according to one of them, in the 16th century, a sailor from Savona brought the myrtle-leaved orange tree from China to the Ligurian Ponente, where it flourished, its fruits appreciated for their scent and flavor after candying. 

 

Chinotto di Savona: yesterday and today

Once upon a time, seafarers sailing along the Ligurian coast perceived the scent of blossoming citrus groves, which provided citrons, oranges, lemons, and outstanding chinotti (i.e., myrtle-leaved oranges). 

Through time, production kept growing, though threatened by an unfortunate sequence of events. 

In 2004, Slow Food teamed with a handful of farmers and manufacturers to safeguard and promote this rare citrus fruit, raising awareness about its potential. The future looks promising, and figures (growers, production, plants) are increasing.

Nearly 800 plants, more than 1,500 new implants, and 10,000 – 20,000 kg. of fruit per year are used mainly in the food industry, to a smaller extent in cosmetics.

The Chinotto di Savona supply chain, backed by the “Il chinotto nella rete” business network, aims at promoting the whole production area.  

Chinotto di Savona, a gourmet "special guest"

A relative of Citrus myrtifolia, the chinotto di Savona features big leaves and – as for fruits - thinner zest and absence of seeds.

Traditional processing includes candying, fruits in syrup, and marmalade, which up to the early 20th century, nourished commerce and export. The soft drink based on chinotto boasts widespread success and has fostered the popularity of the fruit itself. It is a star of both industrial and artisanal productions. Revitalization generated positive side effects and suggested alternative uses of chinotto in the food (experiments abounding in pastry, ice cream, beers, EVO…) and cosmetics industries. The Chinottino liqueur is worth further studies and historical research. 

Chinotto is a symbol of Ligurian agro-food traditions. Savona has treasured this gem thanks to the commitment of skillful growers and manufacturers. Fruits, leaves, dried zest: the chinotto chain is a blend of memory and innovation.

My English abstract of this article was published in LiguriaFood

Luisa Puppo

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