HelloCello was also recognized with a bronze medal for its festive and creative package design. The bright, sunny 375 ml bottle is a result of the creative efforts of HelloCello founders, Fred and Amy Groth. Results of the competition will be published in the May issue of the Tasting Panel Magazine.

“We are thrilled with these awards,” says Fred Groth. ”To us it shows that Limoncello produced in Sonoma with all organic ingredients can compete with the big producers from Italy. It is a California lifestyle beverage that can be enjoyed here in the United States as well.”

HelloCello uses the best organic ingredients grown at select vineyards, local farms and orchards in Northern California.  Limoncello di Sonoma is a smooth, refreshing beverage available in specialty food stores and fine restaurants in Northern California and may be purchased online at www.klwines.com or www.beltramos.com. The suggested retail price is $24.99.

The San Francisco World Spirits Competition is the most influential and respected spirits competition in the world. Celebrating its 10th year, the 2010 Competition was the biggest in its history. 30 judges gathered at the Hotel Nikko in downtown San Francisco on March 13 and 14 to reward spirits excellence by evaluating 1024 different spirits from 57 countries. These judging panels were comprised of spirits experts from noted restaurants and hotels, well-known spirits journalists, spirits buyers for large purveyors, and spirits consultants. Judging was based on a blind, consensual procedure, ensuring competitive integrity as it remains the most recognized competition in the spirits industry. For a complete list of winners visit www.sfspiritscomp.com.

For an updated list of stores and restaurants carrying Limoncello di Sonoma, please visit www.hellosonoma.comor call 707-721-6394. HelloCello is also on Facebook and on Twitter @HelloSonoma.

Fred and Amy Groth, the founders of HelloCello and producers of Limoncello di Sonoma note that most Limoncellos available in the United States have traveled more than 7,000 miles to reach consumers in Northern California. That amounts to 70 times more CO2 emissions released into the air, equivalent to .7 metric tons.

The consumption of organic foods and beverages has been proven to have a positive impact on health and the environment. HelloCello uses the best organic ingredients grown at select vineyards, local farms and orchards in Northern California. The company is an environmentally responsible business that believes in supporting local farms and producers, dedicated to zero waste, and is a carbon neutral producer.

Reducing our impact on the environment can be done by changing everyday habits, like choosing local food and beverages, even for cocktails. Here are a few ideas from local mixologists who celebrate Earth Day and protect our environment one drink at a time!

Carneros Cooler
Created by Eddie Townsend from Farm Restaurant at the
Carneros Inn, Napa, CA

1 oz. HelloCello Limoncello di Sonoma
1.5 oz. hibiscus tequila
1 oz. lime juice
1 strawberry
3 basil leaves
1 teaspoon agave syrup
soda water

Muddle basil leaves and strawberry in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add ice, and all ingredients except soda water. Shack vigorously and pour into a rocks glass. Top with soda water.

Cucumber LimonCelloJito
Created by Tony Teadli from the Carneros Bistro at The Lodge at Sonoma
Sonoma, CA

3 lemon basil leaves
2 slices of lemon cucumber plus additional for garnish
1 oz. HelloCello Limoncello di Sonoma
2 oz. Papagaya Organic white Rum
1 teaspoon agave
Squeeze of lemon
Club soda

Muddle lemon basil and lemon cucumber with a few ice cubes in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add Limoncello di Sonoma, rum and additional ice. Shake and pour into a highball glass. Garnish with cucumber and basil.

Limoncello Tea
Created by Fred & Amy Groth, founders of HelloCello

4 oz. freshly brewed tea, preferably from a local company like Taylor Made, The Republic of Tea or Peet’s
2 oz. Limoncello di Sonoma
2 oz. club soda
2 teaspoons agave nectar
Sprig of mint

Combine brewed tea and add agave nectar. Let cool. In a large glass with ice, combine tea and Limoncello. Top with club soda and garnish with a mint sprig.