Harvesting Tuscany’s Gold: the Journey to Exceptional EVOO

As the golden hues of autumn settle over the Tuscan hills, the region is alive with anticipation. Late October marks the beginning of olive harvest season in Tuscany—a time when the ancient groves of Fattoria San Michele a Torri come to life with the annual ritual that transforms olives into premium extra virgin olive oil. Known for its prized Laudemio EVOO, the farm’s dedication to traditional and sustainable methods shines through, from the first olive picked to the final drop of oil.

The Art and Timing of Olive Harvesting

In Tuscany, olives reach their peak maturity between late October and early November, when their color shifts from vibrant green to a deep purple-black—a process known as invaiatura. This color change signals the olives’ ripeness, when they possess the ideal balance of fruity flavor and polyphenols, the antioxidants that give high-quality EVOO its characteristic bite and health benefits.

The harvesting window is narrow, often extending from October until mid-December, depending on climate and variety. For Fattoria San Michele, the timing of each harvest is meticulously planned to capture the most flavorful and nutrient-rich olives.

This approach demands patience and precision, as different weather conditions can affect the timing and size of the harvest. A cool, dry autumn yields a bountiful crop, while unpredictable weather may compress the schedule, necessitating swift action to preserve quality.

The Journey to Quality: From Tree to Press

Harvesting olives is a communal event, steeped in history and carried out with a deep sense of pride and purpose. Producing premium extra virgin olive oil requires more than just skillful harvesting.

Each step, from cultivation to pressing, is integral to achieving the high quality of San Michele’s Laudemio EVOO. Careful attention is given to every factor influencing quality—tree variety, pruning, fertilization, and timing of the harvest.

The pressing itself is a delicate process, with olives transported swiftly to prevent oxidation, which can compromise flavor and nutritional content.

Once at the mill, the olives undergo a cold pressing to extract the purest oil without the use of heat or chemicals. Cold pressing ensures that the resulting oil retains the full spectrum of natural flavors and beneficial compounds.

The freshly pressed oil is vibrant green and intensely fragrant, with a taste profile that is complex and bold. After pressing, the oil is carefully filtered and stored under optimal conditions to preserve its quality until bottling.

Laudemio: Tuscany’s Gold Standard in Olive Oil

At Fattoria San Michele, the pride of the harvest is the Laudemio EVOO, a name synonymous with excellence in Tuscan olive oil.

The Laudemio Consortium, established in 1988, includes some of Tuscany’s finest producers, all committed to producing oils that exemplify the purity and quality of Tuscan olive oil. Only oils meeting the consortium’s strict standards receive the prestigious Laudemio label, signifying a level of quality that is rigorously tested and ensured.

San Michele’s Laudemio EVOO captures the unique terroir of its groves, offering a robust profile that balances fruity, floral notes with a delightful spiciness and lingering bitterness. These qualities, along with its unique octagonal bottle inspired by vintage French perfume designs, make it a standout in the world of olive oil.

This year, San Michele’s Laudemio achieved a notable Gold Award at the NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition, reinforcing its position as a world-class product that elevates every dish it accompanies.

The Global Appeal of Fattoria San Michele’s Laudemio

Beyond Tuscany, San Michele’s Laudemio has found a growing following among health-conscious consumers and gourmet chefs alike.

Dr. Eric Berg, a prominent health educator, often features the Laudemio EVOO on his popular YouTube channel, sharing its benefits with a global audience. Known for his dedication to wellness, Dr. Berg praised the oil’s purity, antioxidant properties, and flavor profile. His endorsement has resonated with viewers seeking high-quality, nutrient-dense foods, further establishing Laudemio as a trusted choice for those who prioritize health and taste.

In a market filled with oils that may not always meet high standards, Laudemio stands out as a genuine, authentic product, crafted by those who understand and respect the art of olive oil production.

The Health Benefits of Laudemio EVOO

Laudemio EVOO isn’t just a culinary delight; it’s also packed with health benefits. Rich in polyphenols, vitamins, and healthy monounsaturated fats, this oil has been celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties. The high antioxidant content contributes to its robust flavor while helping to combat oxidative stress in the body.

As consumers become more informed about the importance of sourcing high-quality oils, Laudemio EVOO offers a standard of purity and authenticity.

Knowing the origin of the oil, the farming practices involved, and the hands that harvest each olive make a difference in the final product—a difference you can taste.

Why Visit Fattoria San Michele a Torri During Harvest Season?

For those visiting Tuscany in the fall, a trip to Fattoria San Michele during the olive harvest is a must. It’s a rare opportunity to see the olive-to-oil journey unfold and to participate in a tradition that has shaped the region’s culinary heritage for centuries.

Walking through the olive groves, joining the harvest, and tasting fresh EVOO straight from the press gives visitors a deeper appreciation for the craft, care, and commitment that defines San Michele’s approach.

Visitors are also welcome to explore the full range of the farm’s offerings, from their award-winning wines to their artisanal food products. Each product carries the essence of Tuscany, reflecting the farm’s dedication to sustainable and organic practices.

Experience the Taste of Tuscany

From the moment an olive is plucked to the final drop of oil that graces your table, each step in our olive oil journey is infused with tradition, respect, and pride.

Fattoria San Michele a Torri invites you to savor the fruits of their labor—whether through a tasting experience at the farm or by bringing a bottle of our EVOO into your own kitchen.

This exceptional oil embodies the passion of those who cultivate the land and the timeless beauty of Tuscany, allowing you to experience a taste of this remarkable region.