Olive Oil from Italy

The history of olive oil dates back to 5000 B.C. Olive trees were introduced in Italy, specifically Sicily . It was the ancient Greeks who first introduced olive oil into southern Italy around 800 BC as Greece expanded its colonies across the Mediterranean. 

Once the Mediterranean came under control of the Roman Empire, olive oil production took hold in Italy. By the first century B.C. the olive tree and the oil it produced was of great importance to the Romans. In fact, Italy was key to helping olive oil develop its status today.

Some believe that Sicilian extra virgin olive oil is the best Italian olive oil. It is certainly a matter of taste, but Sicilian olives such as Nocellara and Tonda Iblea are of the highest quality. So is the extra virgin oil from which they are produced.

The ancient Greeks introduced olive oil trees in southern Italy around 800 B.C. and since then, Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil had developed into a more delicate flavor than its Greek counterpart. It is fruity and subtle with a delightful light lingering bitterness.

Around 12 B.C., the first Roman Emperor, (Augustus) discovered the olive tree in the hills of Northern Rome, in a region called “Sabina”. The Olive Oil produced from these trees were so exquisite in flavor that it became known as the “Gold of Rome”

Today, Sacco Imports supports the efforts of the local farmers of the Sabina region by importing and offering their “Liquid gold” worldwide. This is only possible by agreement with the wonderful Libellula collective. Libellula enables local farmers to sell their Extra Virgin Olive Oil without the complication of unrealistic production levels or worry about losing a contract if they experience a weak harvest. The results of this relationship are thriving independent farmers using sustainable farming methods in eco-friendly environments and our customers enjoying the most exquisite olive oil in the world!

Supporting Sacco Imports with your purchase, you are helping to ensure that the oldest olive oil communities worldwide continue to thrive while you savor the Mediterranean’s most exquisite olive oils.