
Calabria: Something New to Frantoi
We are excited to tell you that we’ve started working with a new family, producing sublime oils from Calabria.
Located in the instep of Italy, deep south, warm and with an incredible influence from the nearby sea, Tenute Librandi is a 205 hectare estate, 154 of which are dedicated to their olive groves which are cared for impeccably. Near to the town of Vaccarizzo Albanese in the province of Cosenza, Calabria, this magnificent estate has been farmed organically for 20 years, which is an incredible feat and testament to the natural environment, but even more to the people who own and care for the land. This family is amazing. They have had the foresight to farm sustainably and protect their land for future generations.
Calabria is still blissfully off the beaten track, full of original features. It is a natural home for olives with 19% of total Italian cultivation in the region, a large proportion of which is farmed organically. Calabria is surprisingly hilly, sandwiched between the Tyrrhenian and Ionian seas, it benefits from the sea breeze, which mitigates the heat and keeps the groves in perfect health without the need of chemical treatments. Much of the farming is a patchwork of diverse produce but Librandi stands out for its exclusive focus on olive and citrus trees, they make fabulous marmalade as well.
The estate was founded in the 70s by Pasquale Librandi, who passed on his knowledge, philosophy and passion of olive cultivation to his five children: Pino, Carmela, Lucia, Angela and Michele. In 2012 the estate became theirs and they continue to work with profound dedication, each sibling specialising in a different area of the business but all with a common interest. They have brought dynamism to the estate along with innovative ways of working to meet the traditions of their Father.
We have selected four of their oils for you: the Appena Franto (just pressed) is the first release off the blocks in November and a herbaceous, vibrant and spicy blend of the indigenous cultivars Nocellara, Biancolilla and Giarraffa. Dradista is a blend of Coratina, Carolea and Nocellara featuring artichoke and chicory in abundance with a good decisive kick and high polyphenol count. There are also two monocultivars: Carolea, which has a more delicate character and Nocellara del Belice which is peppery and extremely good for you.