Riserva Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Frantoio di Croci
The Riserva Extra Virgin Olive Oil by Frantoio di Croci represents one of the most carefully crafted expressions of the production 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 is made from a selection of green olives of the Frantoio and Moraiolo cultivars, harvested between October and early November, at a stage of the olive oil season when the fruit retains a vibrant aromatic profile and a pronounced vegetal character. The term Riserva identifies here an extra virgin olive oil produced in limited quantities, created to highlight precision in the olive mill and the distinctive identity of the territory, with a positioning that combines gastronomic use and premium presentation.
One of the most interesting aspects of this label is the care devoted to olive processing. The producer specifies that the olives are processed within 8 hours of harvesting, reflecting 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. This is followed by continuous-cycle processing using a two-phase centrifuge, without the addition of dilution water, with the crusher adjusted according to olive ripeness and weather conditions. The malaxers operate in a controlled atmosphere at 24°C, while the process is completed with filtration using cellulose filters and storage in temperature-controlled stainless-steel containers under argon. Together, these technical choices define the profile of the Riserva and reflect the approach of Frantoio di Croci: an integrated production chain centred on raw material selection, aromatic purity and consistent quality.
In the glass and on the plate, this Tuscan extra virgin olive oil displays a green colour with golden highlights and a medium-intense fruity bouquet featuring freshly cut grass, rocket, chicory, artichoke, green almond and olive leaf. The palate recalls fresh olive and develops with a harmonious texture, in which bitterness and pungency accompany the tasting in balance. It is an extra virgin olive oil designed especially for use raw, where it can best express its vegetal profile and aromatic precision. The producer recommends it with crudités, bread, vegetable and legume soups, as well as grilled meats and grilled vegetables. Its well-balanced intensity makes it suitable both for everyday cooking and for more refined dining, where the seasoning becomes an integral part of the gastronomic experience.
Its positioning is further enhanced by the attention given to presentation. The transparent bottle is enclosed in an elegant box designed to protect the oil from light while enhancing its image, making this product particularly suitable as a gourmet gift or for special occasions. Available in 200 ml and 500 ml formats, this extra virgin olive oil is conceived as a product for tasting, gifting or an elegantly set table, where perceived quality is expressed not only through its sensory profile, but also through the story of the olive mill and its territory. With Riserva, Frantoio di Croci brings together the story of a contemporary Tuscan extra virgin olive oil, built around selected olives, limited production, technical expertise and a clearly defined territorial identity.
