By: Gagliardi imports
For nearly a century, the Accardo family has cultivated a deep-rooted tradition in the heart of Sicily, producing some of the world’s finest olive oil. Zagarello Olive Oil, nestled on a 50-acre family farm in the high-altitude lands of Partanna, is much more than a brand. It is a story of heritage, commitment to excellence, and a dedication to preserving the authenticity of Sicilian extra virgin olive oil. The farm, passed down through generations since 1926, has become a symbol of the rich flavors of Sicily, brought to tables across the United States with the promise of quality “from press to plate.”
A Heritage Built on Tradition and Authenticity
The Accardo family’s journey into olive oil production began in the rolling hills of Partanna, where the unique Mediterranean climate and fertile soil provide ideal conditions for growing Nocellara del Belice olives. These olives, known for their distinct flavor profile—bold, fruity, and slightly peppery—are the hallmark of Zagarello Olive Oil. Hand-harvested with care and milled within 24 hours, each olive is treated with the utmost respect to maintain its freshness, integrity, and natural qualities.
This hands-on approach reflects a deep connection to the land and an unwavering commitment to traditional methods that have been passed down through the generations. The Accardo family believes that the process of making olive oil is as important as the product itself, and this belief shines through in every bottle of Zagarello Olive Oil. Their dedication to authenticity is further validated by their prestigious IGP certification, which guarantees the origin, purity, and production methods of the oil.
Photo Courtesy: Zagarello Olive Oil
The Importance of IGP Certification
IGP, or Indicazione Geografica Protetta, is a certification that guarantees the geographic origin and authenticity of agricultural products. For Zagarello Olive Oil, this means that every drop of oil can be traced back to the exact fields in Sicily where the olives were grown. The IGP seal ensures that the oil is 100% genuine Sicilian, free from blends or adulteration, and produced following strict guidelines to preserve its natural qualities.
The IGP certification not only attests to the purity of Zagarello Olive Oil but also highlights the family’s dedication to quality. Each bottle carries a QR code that links directly to the Sicilian government’s database, offering consumers complete transparency and traceability. This modern touch underscores Zagarello’s mission to blend traditional methods with contemporary standards of quality assurance.
Nocellara Olives: The Essence of Zagarello’s Distinct Flavor
Central to Zagarello Olive Oil’s unique taste is the Nocellara del Belice olive, a variety native to the region of Partanna. These olives are prized for their dual purpose: they are not only harvested for oil but also enjoyed as table olives due to their meaty texture and robust flavor. For oil production, the Nocellara olives impart a fresh, vibrant green color and a flavor profile that is deeply Sicilian—rich, fruity, with hints of tomato and artichoke, followed by a pleasant peppery finish.
What sets Zagarello’s oil apart is the meticulous attention to every detail in the production process. The olives are handpicked at their peak ripeness, ensuring that only the best fruit is selected. This careful harvest is followed by immediate milling, preserving the natural flavors and antioxidants that give extra virgin olive oil its renowned health benefits. By milling within 24 hours, Zagarello captures the full essence of the Nocellara olive, delivering a product that is as fresh and flavorful as the land from which it originates.
A Commitment to Quality “From Press to Plate”
Photo Courtesy: Zagarello Olive Oil
Zagarello Olive Oil embodies the philosophy of bringing quality “from press to plate,” a phrase that reflects the brand’s dedication to preserving the authenticity of its product from the moment the olives are harvested to the final drop poured onto a plate. This commitment extends to their export practices, ensuring that every bottle reaching the United States retains the same level of freshness and flavor as it had when first produced in Sicily.
By offering a genuine Sicilian product, Zagarello allows consumers to experience the richness of Sicilian culture and cuisine in their own kitchens. Whether used for drizzling over salads, enhancing pasta dishes, or simply enjoyed with a slice of bread, Zagarello Olive Oil is a celebration of authentic Mediterranean flavors.
A Family Legacy Continues
Photo Courtesy: Zagarello Olive Oil
At its core, Zagarello Olive Oil is a family business rooted in tradition, but it is also a brand that looks to the future. As the world of olive oil continues to evolve, Zagarello remains steadfast in its mission to offer a product that honors its Sicilian heritage while embracing modern standards of quality and transparency. The Accardo family’s unwavering commitment to authenticity, sustainability, and excellence ensures that Zagarello Olive Oil will continue to be a symbol of Sicilian pride for generations to come.
With its IGP certification, its reliance on the unique qualities of Nocellara olives, and its dedication to maintaining the highest standards of production, Zagarello Olive Oil brings the flavors of Sicily to homes and restaurants across the globe. It is a testament to the power of tradition, the beauty of authenticity, and the importance of family in crafting a product that stands the test of time.
Website: www.zagarellooliveoil.com
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Published by: Holy Minoza
