Mongibello Blood Orange Juice

Discover the Natural Sweetness of Sicily’s Famous Blood Oranges

As more and more people become interested in adding superfoods and antioxidant-rich foods into their diets, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice has been gaining popularity for its incredibly sweet taste and significant health benefits. If you’re looking to try this vibrant, ruby-hued juice for yourself, this buying guide will tell you everything you need to know, from what makes it so unique to where you can find bottles of the good stuff.

What is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

Mongibello Blood Oranges are a special variety of blood oranges that grow on the fertile volcanic plains at the base of Mount Etna in Sicily, Italy. They get their name from Mongibello, the local Sicilian name for Mount Etna. These blood oranges are renowned for their distinct sweetness and characteristic blood-red flesh and juice.

Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is made from pressing the vibrantly colored flesh of these special oranges. It has a stunning ruby hue and is known for its intensely sweet, almost syrupy flavor with delightful citrus notes. The juice contains no artificial sugars or preservatives – just the naturally delicious juice extracted from these premium blood oranges.

Where can I buy Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

Authentic Mongibello Blood Orange Juice can be difficult to find, especially outside of Italy. However, it is becoming more available at specialty food stores and gourmet grocery retailers, usually imported directly from Sicily. You may be able to find it at high-end grocers like Whole Foods or specialty Italian markets.

Some brands offering the real deal when it comes to Mongibello Blood Orange Juice include:

• Agrumeria Regaleali – Family-run organic farm in Sicily pressing juice from their own orchards
• Oranfrizer – Sicilian brand cold pressing Mongibello Blood Oranges into juice within hours of harvest
• Spremolio – Small batch juice producer in Sicily specializing in Mongibello Blood Orange Juice
• Mondelli – Italian brand importing actual Mongibello Blood Oranges and producing juice in the US

You can also find Mongibello Blood Orange Juice from boutique juice companies at luxury retail stores like Dean & Deluca or William Sonoma. Just expect to pay a premium price for a high-quality, specialized import.

Is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice 100% natural?

The appeal of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is that it is 100% pure, natural juice. There are no artificial additives, preservatives, flavors, colors, or sweeteners added.

Authentic juice producers simply handpick ripe Mongibello Blood Oranges, extract and filter the juice, then bottle it. This allows the incredibly sweet and tart natural flavor to shine through. Always check labels and look for “100% Sicilian Blood Orange Juice” to ensure you are getting an all-natural product.

What are the health benefits of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

In addition to its irresistible taste, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice delivers some stellar nutritional benefits. It is packed with Vitamin C and antioxidants.

Some of the key vitamins and nutrients in just one serving include:

• 140% DV of Vitamin C – Critical for immune health and fighting inflammation
• 20% DV of Potassium – Helps lower blood pressure by counteracting sodium
• 15% DV of Folate – Essential for cell growth and heart health
• 15% DV of Vitamin A – Supports immune system and good vision
• 14% DV of Magnesium – Relieves muscle cramps and PMS symptoms
• 12% DV of Calcium – Key for bone density and strength

The rich supply of antioxidants like anthocyanins also helps protect your cells against damage from free radicals. The vibrant red-orange pigment of Mongibello Blood Oranges signifies high antioxidant levels.

Research shows drinking blood orange juice daily can lower LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure levels. The citrus flavonoids may also inhibit cancer cell growth.

Does Mongibello Blood Orange Juice contain added sugar?

One of the best qualities of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is that all the sweetness comes directly from the natural sugars in the blood oranges – there is no added sugar whatsoever.

Mongibello Blood Oranges have higher sugar content compared to other orange varieties, giving the juice its signature syrupy sweetness. But the sugar is the fruit’s own inherent fructose and glucose, not added cane sugar or high fructose corn syrup.

So you get all the sweetness you crave without unhealthy added sugars!

Is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice gluten-free?

For those avoiding gluten, you will be happy to know that Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is naturally gluten-free.

It is always made using just one ingredient – Mongibello Blood Oranges! There is no risk of gluten exposure during bottling or processing either. Brands producing certified gluten-free juice will indicate so prominently on labels.

However, always double check labels to confirm the juice you choose is gluten-free, especially if it has any additives or vitamin fortification.

How much does Mongibello Blood Orange Juice cost?

As a specialized imported product, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice tends to be on the pricier side. You can expect to pay $6 to $12 for a 16 oz (500 ml) bottle. It is not unusual to see it sold in 8.5 oz (250 ml) bottles as well.

The juice is produced in limited batches and must be shipped from Sicily, so the price reflects those factors. Higher-end brands or organic options may cost up to $15-$20 per bottle.

For the authentic juice straight from Mongibello Blood Orange orchards, the splurge is worthwhile! But it is quite expensive for daily juicing. Consider it a special treat.

What is the shelf life of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

When shopping, look for bottles with the furthest away “best by” dates. Unopened, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice lasts 2-3 months refrigerated.

The expiration date on the bottle factors in shipping time and storage at the store. Once opened, the juice will maintain peak freshness for about 1-2 weeks refrigerated.

Like all fresh juices, it’s best to drink Mongibello Blood Juice as soon as possible after opening. You can freezer leftover juice in ice cube trays or muffin tins for up to 6 months.

Can Mongibello Blood Orange Juice be used in cocktails?

The brilliant hue and sweet citrus flavor of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice make it an amazing addition to cocktails. Its striking color and ability to pair with both liquor and sparkling wine have made it trendy in the bar scene.

Some cocktail recipes to try crafting with Mongibello Blood Orange Juice:

• Blood Orange Paloma – Tequila, juice, lime, sparkling water
• Blood Orange Negroni – Gin, Campari, sweet vermouth, juice
• Blood Orange Mimosa – Juice and prosecco or champagne
• Blood Orange Margarita – Tequila, juice, lime
• Blood Orange Aperol Spritz – Aperol, juice, sparkling wine

The next time you entertain, impress guests with these vibrant Sicilian-inspired drink recipes!

Is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice organic?

There are some organic options when it comes to Mongibello Blood Orange Juice. Brands like Agrumeria Regaleali harvest blood oranges and produce juice from their own certified organic orchards in Sicily.

Choosing an organic brand ensures your juice is:

• Grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers
• Non-GMO
• Not irradiated or pasteurized

However, even conventional brands don’t use additives or preservatives, so you are still getting pure, natural juice. But organic provides that extra peace of mind.

What makes Mongibello Blood Orange Juice different from regular orange juice?

There are a few key differences that set Mongibello Blood Orange Juice apart from standard orange juice:

• Color – Deep blood-red hue compared to orange
• Taste – Intensely sweet and syrupy with raspberry notes
• Sugar Content – Up to 50% higher sugar than navels and valencias
• Anthocyanins – Up to five times more antioxidants than regular oranges
• Price – Significantly more expensive than typical OJ
• Origin – Grown only on Mount Etna slopes in Sicily

The unique terroir and climate in Sicily produce blood oranges with an unparalleled flavor profile you simply can’t replicate elsewhere. For the authentic experience, go with real-deal Mongibello juice!

Where is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice produced?

True Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is only produced in the fertile volcanic soils surrounding Mount Etna in Sicily. The mineral-rich black lava sand and abundant sunshine help develop the blood oranges’ signature sweetness and crimson pigment.

To qualify as authentic, the oranges used must come from this precise region. Importing the actual fruit to produce juice allows brands to replicate that authenticity.

Beware of “blood orange juices” made from oranges sourced from elsewhere, like California. While still tasty, only Sicilian-grown Mongibello Blood Oranges can achieve that coveted flavor profile.

Does Mongibello Blood Orange Juice come in different sizes?

You will typically find Mongibello Blood Orange Juice sold in 16 oz (500 ml) and 8.5 oz (250 ml) glass bottles. The smaller size is great for trying it or making a few cocktails. The 16 oz bottle allows bigger servings.

Some high-end brands offer it in larger, family-sized 25-33 oz (750-1000 ml) bottles. But the juice is best consumed within 1-2 weeks of opening, so bigger bottles are not necessary for freshness.

For maximum convenience, Mondelli brand sells Mongibello Blood Orange Juice in portable 8.45 oz (250 ml) Tetra Pak cartons that don’t require refrigeration until opening.

Are there reviews for Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

With its surge in popularity, you can find tons of reviews for the top Mongibello Blood Orange Juice brands online. It consistently earns rave reviews for its stunning hue, irresistible sweetness, and incredibly fresh, fruit-forward flavor.

Some of the most glowing reviews highlight:

• Intoxicating raspberry, cherry, and orange blossom notes
• Striking, vibrant red color unlike any other juice
• Smooth, velvety texture and mouthfeel
• Perfect balance of sweet and tart citrus tastes
• Concentrated and syrupy without being cloying

People call it stunningly delicious and refreshingly addictive. The only downside cited is the high cost, but devotees say it’s worth every penny as a special treat.

What recipes can I make with Mongibello Blood Orange Juice?

Mongibello Blood Orange Juice brightens up both sweet and savory recipes. Its versatility makes it perfect for:

• Salad dressings – Tangy, sweet vinaigrettes
• Smoothies – Adds natural sweetness and color
• Sauces – Glazes for chicken, shrimp, salmon
• Desserts – Panna cotta, mousses, sorbet
• Cocktails – Margaritas, spritzes, sangria
• Marinades – For chicken, pork, fish

It can be substituted 1:1 for regular orange juice, lemon juice, or other citrus juices in any recipe. Use it to make jam, granita, citrus curds, and shrubs too.

Can Mongibello Blood Orange Juice be frozen?

Freezing is a great way to enjoy Mongibello Blood Orange Juice beyond its typical 1-2 week refrigerated shelf life after opening.

Pour leftover juice into ice cube trays or muffin tins and freeze. Then transfer cubes to freezer bags. Add the frozen juice cubes to smoothies, cocktails, or sparkling water for a slushy treat.

Frozen flat in bags or containers, it will last about 6 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before using.

Is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice suitable for vegans?

Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is inherently vegan-friendly. Since it is simply the extracted juice of blood oranges, there are no animal products involved.

Brands clearly label if they use any non-vegan additives like milk or egg for vitamin fortification. But most do not include anything other than the oranges.

Juices certified organic or not from concentrate are especially safe bets for avoiding additives. So yes, you can fully enjoy this sweet juice on a vegan diet!

How does Mongibello Blood Orange Juice taste?

The flavor profile of Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is complex, dynamic, and downright delicious. Here is a breakdown of the taste:

• Sweetness – Intensely syrupy and sugar-rich upfront
• Citrus – Tart orange notes with lemony acidity
• Berry flavors – Hints of raspberry, cherry, pomegranate, and plum
• Floral aroma – Orange blossoms and honeysuckle
• Mouthfeel – Smooth, velvety, and nicely viscous
• Finish – Lingering sweetness balanced by brightness

It is sweeter than regular OJ but with more complex fruit layers. The raspberry undertones are distinctive. Savor it straight or add sparkling wine for a phenomenal flavor combination.

Does Mongibello Blood Orange Juice come in plastic or glass bottles?

Traditionally, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice comes in dark amber glass bottles. The colored glass helps protect the juice from light exposure and retains freshness.

Some modern brands use clear glass for displaying the vivid color. But plastic bottles are not typically used since the juice can take on a plastic taste over time.

Glass is best for maintaining quality and minimizing chemical leaching. Green glass offers the most UV light protection to prevent oxidation.

Is Mongibello Blood Orange Juice available for wholesale purchase?

For those looking to buy Mongibello Blood Orange Juice in larger quantities for professional use, some brands offer wholesale pricing on cases. Purchasing by the case allows savings for:

• Restaurant and bars
• Cafes and coffee shops
• Hotels
• Catering companies
• Specialty food stores

Wholesale case sizes often contain 12 or 24 bottles. You may need a business license or tax ID to order wholesale. Check producer websites for pricing and minimums.

Stock up on this sunshiney Sicilian juice to wow your customers!

So in summary, Mongibello Blood Orange Juice is a vibrant, antioxidant-rich juice with a refreshingly complex sweet and tart flavor. Sourced straight from Sicily, this deep red juice will liven up cocktails, recipes, and your morning routine! Use this complete buying guide to find bottles of authentic, natural juice packed with flavor and nutrition.