Tuscan extra virgin olive oil PGI
Extra virgin olive oil has always been one of the most prized jewels of the Tuscan lands. Since 1998, the region’s olive production has been enhanced and protected through the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI), a guarantee of quality and authenticity. According to the specifications, each phase, from the harvesting of the olives to the pressing and packaging process, must take place exclusively within the Tuscan territory.
The unique characteristics of Tuscan olive oil
The native varieties used for the production of Tuscan PGI extra virgin olive oil, such as frantoio, leccino, moraiolo and others, give this precious liquid a unique character. The olives are harvested by hand or with mechanical methods and the extraction takes place through traditional processes that preserve the qualities of the fruit intact. The Tuscan environment, with its varied geography and over 80 varieties of native olive trees, helps create oils with distinct nuances and scents. In addition to the PGI denomination, there are 8 additional geographical mentions that allow us to identify the production area: “Colline della Lunigiana”, “Colline di Arezzo”, “Colline di Firenze”, “Colline Lucchesi”, “Colline Senesi”, “Montalbano “, “Monti Pisani” and “Seggiano”.
The taste of Tuscan oil: a sensorial journey
Tuscan extra virgin olive oil has an intense green color which, with the passage of time, transforms into a suggestive golden tone while maintaining lively green reflections. Its aroma is characterized by fresh vegetal notes, while a light bitterness and pleasant spiciness are revealed on the palate. This precious elixir is ideal for enhancing the taste of vegetables, soups, fish and grilled meat, giving each dish a touch of authentic Tuscan tradition.
The oil cities in Tuscany: a journey through villages and breathtaking landscapes
In the heart of Tuscany, among medieval villages and breathtaking landscapes, the oil cities are hidden, authentic custodians of a thousand-year-old tradition. From Pisa to Grosseto, from Florence to Siena, each province offers a wide range of olive delicacies. In total there are 60 Tuscan localities that are part of the network of oil cities, united in the protection of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Lucca and the wine and oil route
In Tuscany there are some wine and oil roads, itineraries that lead us through valleys and hills to discover farms, villas and cellars where excellent quality wines and oils are produced. One of these develops in the province of Lucca between the Serchio Valley, Montecarlo, Versilia and the Lucca Hills. In these lands, it is possible to taste not only extra virgin olive oil, but also other local specialties, such as buccellato and tordelli.
City of oil in the province of Pisa
The Pisan hills are dotted with picturesque villages such as Riparbella and Montescudaio, where the art of oil mixes with the beauty of nature. The Strada dell’Olio dei Monti Pisani, which includes Buti, Calci and Vicopisano, offers a suggestive route through olive groves and chestnut groves, ideal for trekking lovers.
Florence and the flavors of the countryside
In the heart of the Florentine countryside, extra virgin olive oil is the undisputed protagonist of culinary traditions. From Mugello to the Florentine hills, from Val d’Elsa to Chianti, there are numerous farms and agricultural companies that produce high quality oil, perfect for accompanying typical dishes such as ribollita and fettunta. There are many places in the province of Florence where quality oil is produced: Bagno a Ripoli, Barberino Tavarnelle in Val di Pesa, Fiesole, Florence, Greve in Chianti, Montaione, Reggello, San Casciano and Vinci which is located along the Strada dell’olio e del vino del Montalbano.
Livorno and the Etruscan Coast
The hills of Livorno, in the hinterland of the Etruscan Coast, hide authentic olive-growing jewels, such as Castagneto Carducci, Rosignano Marittimo and Suvereto. Here, between ancient traditions and modern production techniques, oils of extraordinary quality are born, which go well with the local cuisine.
Siena and the excellence of its extraordinary territory
The province of Siena boasts a rich and historic olive growing tradition, well certified by over 20 oil cities. The localities involved in the production of extra virgin olive oil are distributed throughout the Sienese territory, from Chianti to the Crete Senesi and the Val d’Orcia, from the Val d’Elsa to the Sienese Val di Chiana. Just to name a few, among the oil cities in the province of Siena we find Castellina in Chianti, Chiusi, Montalcino, Montepulciano, Monteriggioni, Pienza and San Gimignano.
Arezzo, between Valdarno and Valdichiana
Valdarno Superiore and Valdichiana are two territories rich in traditions, where villages such as Castiglion Fibocchi, Castiglion Fiorentino, Cortona, Foiano della Chiana, Laterina, Lucignano and Monte San Savino jealously preserve the secrets of their culinary culture. Here it is possible to taste not only excellent extra virgin olive oil, but also fine wines, truffles, local cheeses and much more.
Grosseto, Mount Amiata and the Maremma
In the suggestive scenery of Monte Amiata, villages such as Arcidosso and Castel del Piano produce some of the finest Tuscan oils. Along the Strada del Vino e dei Sapori del Montecucco it is possible to taste not only oil, but also other typical products of the area. The Maremma is no exception, with locations such as Capalbio, Massa Marittima, Pitigliano and Roccastrada.
In every corner of Tuscany, extra virgin olive oil is much more than a condiment: it is the very essence of tradition, culture and passion of an entire people. Discovering the cities of oil means immersing yourself in an exciting journey among the flavors and aromas of a unique land in the world.
