Amid the Umbrian and Tuscan hills, where the land tells stories of tradition and tireless work, Tenute del Cerro's olive oil is born. This excellence, which complements the already well-recognized wine production, represents both a challenge and a declaration of love for a unique territory. The olive oil production involves two estates symbolic of these lands: Fattoria del Cerro in Montepulciano, Tuscany, and Montecorona in Umbria. These are places where nature, innovation, and agronomic care come together to create a product that is not just food, but a true experience.
The strength of a constant commitment: Tenute del Cerro's 2024 olive oil
The Tenute del Cerro group has decided to firmly invest in olive growing, dedicating resources and attention to improve the quality of a product that holds strong cultural value. As Franco Fierli, agronomist at Fattoria del Cerro, states, "In 38 years of experience, I have seen the sector face many challenges, but this has never diminished our commitment to producing an extraordinary quality oil. On the contrary, we work every day to enhance it with targeted agronomic choices and constant investments".
In Montepulciano, drip irrigation systems have been introduced to help the olive trees overcome increasingly frequent climatic challenges. "With this technique, even a few sips of water at critical moments have allowed the olive trees to avoid stress and reach full maturation. This year, with a very hot and dry summer, just two irrigations were enough to significantly improve the quality of the harvest".
Stefano Belvisi, the agronomist at the Montecorona estate, also explains how attention to detail is essential in the context of climate change. "Blooming and fruit setting are increasingly critical moments. High summer temperatures and mild winters promote the onset of diseases, making timely and targeted interventions necessary to safeguard the health of the plants".
Two territories, two characters: the olive oils of Tenute del Cerro
The hills of Montepulciano and Montecorona offer two unique expressions of extra virgin olive oil. The varieties cultivated - Frantoio, Moraiolo, and, in smaller percentages, Leccino - are common to both estates, but it is the territory that makes the difference.
At Fattoria del Cerro, in Tuscany, the result is a harmonious and gentle oil, perfect for those seeking elegance and refinement. "This year, our oil stands out for its balanced sweetness and delicate fruitiness", explains Fierli. "It is not overpowering but caresses the palate with a subtle pepperiness and mild bitterness".
Montecorona, on the other hand, tells a different story—one that is more intense and decisive, typically Umbrian. Belvisi describes the oil as "very green, with a fragrance of fresh grass and artichoke, and a spiciness that makes itself felt. It is a product that speaks directly to the palate, without filters, conveying the strong character of our land".
These differences do not represent a division but a richness: two interpretations of the same love for olive growing, satisfying different palates while maintaining the highest quality.
A challenging yet memorable year
The 2024 season was an extraordinary one. Hot summers and sudden autumn rains created challenging conditions for the olive trees, resulting in much lower yields than usual. "This year, the yield was only 10%, compared to the usual 13-14%. It was harder work, but it was worth it: we produced an oil that I would define as five stars, one of the best of recent years", says Fierli.
Belvisi also highlights the challenges faced. "Due to the rain, the olives became waterlogged. Despite the difficulties, the final product was exceptional, with an extremely high level of polyphenols, ensuring both quality and health benefits".
When every detail matters: from olive harvesting to the bottles' restyling
Attention to detail is what makes the difference between good olive oil and exceptional oil. In Montepulciano and Montecorona, the olives are harvested and processed with almost obsessive precision. "We never let more than two hours pass between harvesting and crushing", explains Belvisi. "This prevents any risk of oxidation and fermentation, preserving freshness and integrity".
The storage techniques are no less sophisticated: the oil is stored in steel tanks at a controlled temperature, saturated with nitrogen to eliminate oxygen, which is responsible for oxidation. "Such attention starts in the field: pruning, irrigation, and targeted harvesting all contribute to creating a product that speaks of perfection in every drop", adds Fierli.
A New look for a precious product
To enhance such a precious product, Tenute del Cerro has recently revamped the olive oil packaging. The Oleum bottle, with its elegant, tapered design, stands out for both its style and practicality.
Each estate has customized its label, adding a unique and recognizable touch. "The goal was clear: to make the oil not only good but also beautiful to look at, a gift for oneself or others", says Fierli.
Behind every bottle of Tenute del Cerro oil lies a story of dedication, tradition, and love for the land. The products from Montepulciano and Montecorona are the most authentic expression of two unique territories, capable of telling their soul through flavors and aromas. Choosing this oil means choosing a product that carries the work, passion, and respect for nature.
It is an invitation to discover, through every drop, the essence of an extraordinary territory.
