Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Frantoio di Croci
The Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Frantoio di Croci represents one of the most significant expressions of the olive-growing culture of the Campioni family, a Tuscan business that grows and processes olives in the landscape of the Valdinievole, in the province of Pistoia. This product originates from olive groves located on plots that meet the requirements for organic production and is part of an integrated supply chain in which the fruit is followed from the field to the olive mill through an approach that combines agricultural experience, technical precision and a strong connection with the territory. The cultivars indicated by the producer include Frantoio, Leccino, Moraiolo and other native varieties, selected to create an extra virgin olive oil capable of expressing vegetal freshness, balance and stylistic consistency.
The olive harvest takes place from October to the end of November, during a period that follows the evolution of fruit ripeness and contributes to defining the aromatic profile of the oil. One of the most interesting aspects of this product is the speed of processing: the producer's website indicates that the olives are processed within 8–12 hours of harvesting, an operational timeframe that reflects the intention to work with the fruit as quickly as possible. Before crushing, the olives undergo defoliation, removal of foreign matter and washing with clean water. Processing then continues through a continuous two-phase system without the addition of dilution water, with the crusher adjusted according to the ripeness of the olives and weather conditions. The malaxers operate in a controlled atmosphere at 24°C, while the process is completed with cardboard filtration and storage in temperature-controlled stainless-steel containers under argon. Together, these steps clearly reflect the philosophy of the olive mill: limited production supported by technological choices aimed at enhancing the raw material and its sensory expression.
In the glass and on the plate, the organic Tuscan EVO oil by Frantoio di Croci presents an intense green colour with golden highlights and a medium-intense fruity bouquet featuring vegetal notes of wild herbs. The flavour recalls fresh olive and develops with a harmonious texture, in which hints of bitterness and pungency accompany the tasting in balance, without overpowering the other ingredients. It is an oil particularly suited to use raw on crudités, bread, vegetable and legume soups, as well as on grilled meats and grilled vegetables, preparations to which it can add aromatic depth and a distinctive sense of place. More than a simple seasoning, this extra virgin olive oil tells the story of a family-run Tuscan olive mill that has chosen to combine cultivation, extraction and product care in an offering consistent with its history and with Tuscany's olive-growing landscape.
