The walnuts are one of the most important delights offered by nature of Sorrento Peninsula and, thanks to them, Sorrento was famous since ancient times.
In fact, the proves given by the archaeological ruins of Pompei and Herculaneum tell us that walnuts were already harvested and appreciated by the Ancient Romans.
The ancestral connection between walnuts and the Land of the Sirens could also be demonstrated by the names of certain localities on the peninsula itself: for example, in the hills of Piano di Sorrento, there is a site called Casanocillo, on the boundary with Vico Equense.
Different meanings are given to this fruit, such as wealth and prosperity: in ancient time were thrown to the spouses (instead of rice) as a sign of good luck and fecundity.
The walnuts start ripening in September and are harvested in the following weeks: they are a sure delicacy on Christmas time.
Sorrento walnuts are highly appreciated by chefs and pastry chefs for their organoleptic properties and for the preparation of different kind of sauces, desserts and cakes, as well as to intensify the taste of some cheeses.
In particular, Sorrento walnuts are famous for the preparation of “Nocillo”: a liqueur with intense and aromatic taste whose digestive properties make it perfect to conclude a rich dinner on cold winter evenings.