A Journey to the Heart of Mediterranean Wellness and the Mediterranean Diet
Imagine a landscape where centuries-old olive trees dominate rolling hills and time is marked by the slow rhythms of nature. This place is Puglia, a land with a strong Mediterranean identity. At the heart of this extraordinary region lies the Mediterranean Diet, recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. And at the heart of this unique way of life is Puglia's extra virgin olive oil, epitomized to the highest standard by Frantoio D'Orazio in Conversano.
More than a Diet, a Lifestyle – The Mediterranean Diet, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
1.1 The Principles of the Mediterranean Diet
The Mediterranean Diet is not just a list of foods, but a lifestyle that promotes longevity and well-being. Based primarily on the consumption of plant-based foods, whole grains, fish, and extra virgin olive oil, this diet is scientifically proven to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve quality of life.
1.2 Conviviality: Social Well-being
Mediterranean conviviality is essential for psychological and social well-being. Studies show that eating together reduces stress and depression, strengthening interpersonal relationships, and improving overall well-being.
1.3 Science of Longevity
Ancel Keys' "Seven Countries Study" and the PREDIMED study have scientifically validated the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet, demonstrating a significant reduction in cardiovascular and degenerative diseases thanks to the regular consumption of EVO oil.
Apulian Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Gold of the Mediterranean Diet
2.1 The Nutritional Core of EVO Oil
Extra virgin olive oil is irreplaceable due to its unique composition, rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidant polyphenols. These elements protect the heart, reduce LDL cholesterol, and have anti-inflammatory properties, making it a fundamental pillar of the Mediterranean diet.
2.2 The Apulian Terroir: Secret of Quality
The secret of Apulian extra virgin olive oil also lies in the resilience of its terroir. In conditions of moderate water scarcity—as often occurs in Puglia's hot, dry climate—the olive tree activates natural defense mechanisms, producing greater quantities of polyphenols: valuable antioxidant compounds such as oleuropein, tyrosol, and hydroxytyrosol.
These bioactive substances improve the oil's nutritional and sensory profile, contributing to its intense and persistent character. However, quality isn't measured by polyphenols alone: excessive water stress can compromise yield and cause sensory defects such as "woodiness," making the oil non-compliant with EVO standards.
This is why we speak of a controlled water deficit : a delicate balance that encourages the plant to produce its best, without compromising either flavor or quality. It is in this subtle dialogue between nature and agricultural knowledge that the excellence of Apulian olive oil is born.
2.3 Native Cultivars: Coratina and Simone
Frantoio D'Orazio carefully selects the most representative native varieties of the area. Among these, Coratina stands out for its high polyphenol content, which gives the oil a bold, intense flavor.
Alongside Coratina, the mill has rediscovered and revived a minor, almost forgotten cultivar: Simona . Abandoned over time by farmers due to low yields, this local variety is now being re-evaluated for its gentle, rounded, and harmonious sensory profile.
With its focus on historic cultivars and the area's olive-growing heritage, Frantoio D'Orazio not only protects agricultural biodiversity but also offers enthusiasts a range of oils that enhance both traditional Apulian dishes and more contemporary gourmet preparations.
Frantoio D'Orazio – Oil Art and Innovation
3.1 A Family History
Since 1930, Frantoio D'Orazio has passed down its passion for producing extra virgin olive oil through three generations. This legacy combines tradition and innovation, with rigorous attention to quality and sustainability.
3.2 Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability at Frantoio D'Orazio isn't just a slogan, but a concrete, daily approach. The entire company is powered by solar energy , which covers the energy needs of production. During the winter, water for the boiler is heated by reusing almond shells , a byproduct of the in-house shelling process.
Nothing is wasted: the pomace (the solid residue from oil extraction) is used to extract the olive stone , which is then sold as an eco-friendly fuel. The pâté —a mixture of vegetation water and residual pulp—is also sent as biomass to companies specializing in energy reuse.
This attention to the intelligent reuse of resources creates a virtuous cycle that combines innovation, respect for the environment and the valorization of waste as a resource.
3.3 Excellent Production Methods
The quality of an extra virgin olive oil – understood as richness of aromas and aromatic intensity – is the result of a precise and rigorous supply chain , which starts with the selection of healthy olives , pressed immediately after harvesting .
The choice of crusher plays a crucial role , not only in its type (hammer or knife), but also in the size of the holes in the grid , a determining parameter for the extraction of the finest and most distinctive aromas.
At this stage the protoreactor comes into play , an innovative technology that does not replace the crusher, but amplifies its effect , further enhancing the sensory profile of the oil, both in monocultivars and in olive oil blends .
The result is a product of excellence, enclosed in packaging inspired by Apulian art , which conveys at first glance the beauty and complexity of an extraordinary territory.
D'Orazio Experience – Taste and Well-being
4.1 Oils to Taste
Frantoio D'Orazio offers two distinctive lines that combine aesthetics and substance. The Multicultivar line features an olive oil that is always identical in composition, but offered in bottles and tins available in all sizes , featuring original and ever-changing designs that celebrate the art, color, and creativity of Puglia. A collection that combines taste and style, perfect as a gift idea or a distinctive element on the table.
The Monocultivar line is designed for those seeking authenticity and distinction: each bottle contains the unique profile of a single variety – such as Coratina, Simona and Picholine – offering a different expression of fruity aromas , not only in terms of bitterness and spiciness, but above all in terms of specific aromatic nuances.
The dark glass bottles are embellished with elegant labels , characterised by a refined selection of colours that make them almost similar to perfume bottles , evoking a complete sensorial experience from the first glance.
A collection that interprets the varietal richness of Apulian olive growing with style and personality.
4.2 Gourmet and Beauty Line
Il Frantoio expands the Mediterranean experience with the "Ciccio D'Orazio" gourmet line and the beauty line , based on the cosmetic properties of EVO oil, creating a complete ecosystem of well-being.
4.3 Tasting Experiences
Visitors can enjoy unique experiences such as tastings at the oil mill, picnics in the olive groves, tastings in the trulli, aperitifs on board a boat, and at the Bishop store located in the historic center of Conversano, turning a simple visit into an unforgettable memory.
Bring Puglia to the Table with D'Orazio
The Mediterranean Diet and Apulian extra virgin olive oil represent a secret to authentic well-being. By choosing Frantoio D'Orazio, you're choosing not just a high-quality product, but an entire lifestyle of taste, health, and conviviality.
