our producers
We are proud to begin the progressive launch of our small-scale olive oil producers, allowing each their moment to shine. Your journey into the world of quality Italian olive oil is just beginning…
My brother and I were just beginning our business endeavor when I first met Carmen Bonfante, EVO Sicily Producer, in Trieste, Italy and was immediately struck by her humble confidence. As she presented her exquisite bottle of olive oil, affectionately named "Embrace," it became clear that what lay within this elegant vessel was more than just oil; it was a heartfelt narrative waiting to be unveiled.
It was months later, at Le Caserie, a restaurant tucked away in a quiet cove in the historic part of Marsala, Sicily that I shared a meal with Carman, her business partner, and her son. As we passed around a bottle of Embrace, drizzling it over each Sicilian dish, our conversations and laughter flowed naturally despite the slight language barrier. That evening, surrounded -not by producers, but rather friends, and submerged in the essence of Sicily, I felt a profound sense of satisfaction. We had made the right choice investing in Carman, not just for the exceptional quality of her oil, but for the connection to a tradition that celebrates both family and friendship. We invite you to read more about Carmen and hope that and find her her story just inspiring as we have.
Have you ever met someone who speaks with such a contagious passion that you are immediately drawn into conversation, vested in discovering what feeds such enthusiasm? Meet Laura Gabriele, a third generation olive oil producer from Frantoio Gabriele in Valderice, Sicily.
During our first conversation together, I was captivated by the excitement with which Laura spoke of the impact each member of her family had in the successful production of their extra virgin olive oil. This was truly a family affair. From the labels covered with beautiful hand drawn Sicilian maiolica to the unique olive oil flavor profiles curated from the different olive cultivars gown on their estate, the Gabriele Family is dedicated to creating an olive oil that embodies their passion for both their land and their Sicilian heritage.
In the time since that initial meeting, our collaborations together have evolved into genuine friendships. Both Jeremy and I have had the chance to visit Valderice, spending time with Laura and her Family, staying at the beautiful B&B they run, touring their mill, and sampling olive oil at its peak freshness as it flows right from the press. We are proud to support a family so passionate about their craft and invite you to read more about the Gabriele Family and the ways in which they have incorporated new technology while still honoring the traditions of generations past.
You’ll also find a link to their Bed and Breakfast, where you’ll treated like family. Whether sipping on a glass of locally produced wine under a starlit sky or enjoying a traditional Sicilian dish prepared with fresh olive oil produced on site, you’ll experience the heart and soul of the island.
We are thrilled to introduce Nunzia Maria Tinelli, owner of Masseria Tinelli, a charming small farm nestled in the heart of Puglia adorned with rolling hills of olive groves and golden wheat fields. It’s here where Nunzia and her family create an exceptional extra virgin olive oil along with a variety of pastas reflective of her Apulian heritage. Perhaps what is most impressive about Nunzia is that her passion extends beyond olives; as she strives to raise awareness of the significance and benefits associated with an array of ancient grains she grows, mills into flour, and shapes into pasta. She does this through engaging workshops, tours, and cooking classes that she hosts on her farm, inviting others to experience the beauty and richness of her land. After visiting with Nunzia and her family, you are are left with a sense of fullness both literally and figuratively. Bellies full of pasta, pizzas and bread all drizzled with fresh extra virgin olive oil, and a deeper awareness of the harmonious connection between the land, the harvest, and the rich flavors of Puglia.
We are grateful for our collaboration with Nunzia, a dedicated artisan committed to quality and tradition. We are excited to bring her exceptional single source extra virgin olive oil and ancient grain pastas to the U.S. market, each a testament to Nunzia’s passion for her craft, embodying the rich heritage of Italian culinary artistry. Experience the authentic flavors that come from her small-scale production, and elevate your meals with the essence of Italy.