Paola’s fascination and fondness for oil production dates back to the end of the 19th Century when one of her great aunts, whose name was Oliva, described by the family as an old maid, was given an olive grove and an olive mill. Since then, all of Paola’s ancestors continued on this path, cultivating their olives and their mills. Her great grandfather, who was a chemist, became so attached to the running of the mill that he forgot about owning a pharmacy. This business that had developed with the ebbs and flows of time was then handed down to Paola’s father, Edoardo. He chose to carry on with this rather than becoming a lawyer and it is thanks to him for preserving the business, navigating potential havoc caused by marriage break-ups and building activities and undertaking many personal sacrifices.
The Orsini farm finds itself amidst undulating hills of Priverno, south of Rome and not far from Latina. The land is well exposed to the sun and ventilation is constant thanks to the proximity of the Tirrenean Sea. The soil is poor and stony and as this is home to the Orsini family, there is no question that it is farmed organically.
Botanically speaking, the Itrana cultivar tends to be fairly vigorous in its home here in Southern Lazio, thanks to the temperate climate and optimal pH of the soil. It is influenced by its proximity to surrounding woodland, which protect and support the groves and undoubtedly the characteristic aromas in the resulting oil.
Paola believes that good farming practice follows the rhythms of the seasons and soil fertility as a priority. Patience, honesty, responsibility. These are values we respect and share highly with her.
When an oil such as Paola Orsini’s Riserva crosses your path, you don’t walk past it. You understand fully why her ancestors resisted perhaps more stable careers in pursuit of this wonderful art. She has interpreted the Itrana cultivar to precision and frankly, to perfection. We are beyond thrilled to share this singular, truly elite extra virgin olive oil with you.
