A historic journey
In the serene setting of Caprona, located within the Vicopisano municipality, the Oleificio Sociale dei Monti Pisani (Monti Pisani Social Olive Oil Mill)” was established in August 1971. With historic roots in the production of olive oil from Monte Pisano, over the years the mill has played a pivotal role in bolstering the local economy and upholding the revered olive-growing heritage of Tuscany.
Born from a noble aspiration to invigorate and sustain rural economies, the cooperative thrived over the years, attracting over a thousand clients, including 500 esteemed members of the association. This community consisted of olive cultivators from the region and esteemed producers from the municipalities of Monte Pisano and surrounding areas.
However, over time, olive cultivation, particularly practices unique to the Monte Pisano characterized by its picturesque terraces, faced increasing challenges. Few enterprises persevered in nurturing their olive groves and preserving the time-honoured art of harvesting. Consequently, the mill faced its own challenges, witnessing a significant decline from processing 18,000 quintals of olives in the vibrant 1980s to a mere 1,000 quintals in recent harvest seasons.
Revitalizing the Frantoio del Monte Pisano
In 2023, after enduring a challenging period, the management of the mill transitioned to former IT entrepreneur Leonardo Paolino, marking the birth of Frantoio del Monte Pisano olive mill. Today, the company aims to relaunch with elevated standards of quality in the production process, renewed machinery to streamline production phases, and a team of skilled and competent personnel.
A heartfelt acknowledgement is owed to those whose tireless efforts have supported the growth and evolution of the mill over the years, notably the Bonanni family, who contributed significantly to the mill’s development, and more recently, Caterina Da Cascina, for her unwavering dedication.Starting with the upcoming olive harvest, the mill, in collaboration with local institutions, olive growers, and entrepreneurs, aspires to reclaim its status as a point of reference in the area for excellence in olive cultivation, respecting every stage of production: from meticulous field management to harvesting, processing, packaging, and marketing. The goal is to produce the finest extra virgin olive oil possible, derived from the pressing of exceptional raw material: the olives from our region.
