San Donato
Location: Firenze, Tuscany
Size: 3.6 hectares
Rejuvenation Start: 2010
Altitude: 500 meters
Exposure: South West
Total Trees: 617
Cultivated Varietal: Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, Pendolino, Olivo Bianco
In 2010, we embarked on a heartfelt mission to rejuvenate San Donato.
San Donato's story is deeply intertwined with Daniela and her late husband, Bruno.
They purchased this land with dreams of building a home and nurturing its olive trees. Tragically, Bruno passed away before they could move in, leaving Daniela unable to manage the grove alone.
Over time, the once-thriving 3.6-hectare property fell into neglect, crying out for the care it desperately needed.
What began as a gesture of friendship quickly evolved into a mission to preserve the legacy of San Donato. Bruno's love for these trees became our guiding light. Our dedication to this grove is not only a tribute to him but also a homage to the spirit of the surrounding community.
Today, San Donato thrives, embodying resilience and renewal. It is home to 617 olive trees, dominated by the robust Frantoio and Moraiolo varietals, complemented by the characterful Leccino, Pendolino, and Olivo Bianco trees. This diverse array of native Tuscan cultivars flourishes under our care, making the grove a symbol of biodiversity.
Perched 500 meters above sea level with southwest exposure, San Donato offers breathtaking beauty and formidable challenges. The grove has faced harsh frosts, intricate pruning, and laborious harvests. Yet, with persistent care and patience, it has not only endured but flourished, producing world-class olive oil that varies in character from one harvest to the next.
San Donato represents the power of nature and our profound connection to the land. It tells a story of dedication, community, and meaning—a story we are passionate about continuing.
“Abandoned olive groves are more than just trees. They're the storytellers of our past, living symbols of an identity and the biodiversity that makes each region unique, and deserving of our care.”
~ Fil Bucchino, Founder