Exploring the Best Olive Oil Farms in Puglia
09/06/24
Artisan Olive Oil Company
When staying at Villa Torre Bianca, you’re immersed in a landscape of endless olive groves, with thousands of trees stretching as far as the eye can see. It’s no wonder that Puglia, Italy’s sun-drenched heel, is home to some of the world’s finest olive groves and extra virgin olive oils. For centuries, masserie (traditional farm estates) have perfected the art of olive oil making, blending ancient traditions with modern techniques. If you’re planning a trip to Puglia and want to experience its "liquid gold" firsthand, here are four of the best olive oil farms to visit.
Set amidst three hectares of olive groves, Masseria Villa Verde offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and flavor. Here, you can tour both ancient and modern oil mills, learn about traditional production methods, and savor freshly pressed oils. If you visit during harvest season (September–November), you can even take part in picking olives—a truly authentic experience.
Why visit? For its historic charm, educational tours, and seasonal hands-on harvesting opportunities.
Imagine walking among olive trees that are over 1,000 years old. At Masseria Montenapoleone, this becomes reality. Guided by a farmer-sommelier, you’ll taste three organic olive oils—Il Mille, Il Cento, and Il Venti5—paired with Puglian delicacies like taralli, friselle, and almonds. It’s a sensory journey that blends flavor and tradition in an unforgettable way.
Why visit? For its ancient groves, organic oils, and the unique food pairings that elevate the tasting.
Tucked between centuries-old olive groves near Fasano, Extravergine Savoia is a family-run farm where tradition meets passion. Guests are guided through the groves and the milling process before settling in for a tasting that showcases the nuances of Puglia’s prized extra virgin olive oil. The experience is equal parts educational and indulgent, with a strong focus on quality and heritage.
Why visit? For an authentic, family-style immersion into olive oil culture with plenty of heart (and flavor) behind it.
Oleificio Salamida celebrates the heritage of Puglian olive oil through time-honored techniques and a deep respect for the land. With groves surrounding the iconic trulli of Alberobello and a focus on producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil, the experience here is rooted in tradition and taste. Visitors can explore the mill, learn about the cold-pressing process, and enjoy tastings that highlight the vibrant character of their oils.
Why visit? To discover the authentic flavors of Puglia while connecting with the people and processes that make this olive oil so exceptional.
Masseria Salamina focuses on authenticity and sensory exploration. With centuries-old olive groves and a commitment to organic production, this estate offers professional sensory evaluations to help you understand the true qualities of extra virgin olive oil. It’s more than a tasting—it’s an education in how to recognize excellence.
Why visit? To deepen your understanding of olive oil authenticity and flavor profiles.
Whichever you choose, visiting one (or more!) of these masserie is the best way to discover why Puglia’s olive oil is considered among the finest in the world.
