Abandoned Grove took over Vernalese in 2010 to support our now close friend Giovanna, who, along with some local farmers, tended to the grove after her father passed away.

Unfortunately, the older generation of olive farmers could not find replacements and eventually abandoned it.

Spanning almost 2 hectares, Vernalese is home to 357 olive trees, primarily of the Frantoio and Moraiolo varieties. This year, as part of our new tree planting program, we planted 10 Americano and 10 Frantoio trees, bringing the total to 377.

Vernalese Grove is situated at an altitude of 250 meters with a west exposure over Florence, benefiting from a unique microclimate that has proven advantageous and delicious over the years. The oil from this grove has been part of our Founder’s Reserve for three years straight. This grove is particularly special to me because it was the site of a legendary lunch during the shoot of 'Obsessed with Olive Oil' and the beginning of my deep friendship with Giovanna.

It is usually the first grove I visit as soon as I arrive.