Olive oil is my passion. Food is my passion and travel is my passion. I have decided to combine all these loves into my new business, The Virtuous Olive, and it is here that I am first announcing its launch. After last year’s visit to Puglia, Italy and to a local frantoio, (olive mill), my heart spoke to me and insisted that I import this olive oil. This is not just any olive oil. It is 100% pure extra virgin Italian oil made from olives solely grown in Puglia. Its flavor is lovely, distinct and makes a statement.
Next week I travel to Puglia to learn from the masters at Galantino all the nuances that make olive oil special. We will cook, olive grove gaze and be immersed in all things olive. This is just my cup of tea. I plan to post recipes, insights and historical facts as well as indulging in some amazing food. Puglia, also known as the heel of Italy’s boot, is magical and unspoiled and filled with warm, welcoming faces. Click here to see a map of the region and to read about its baroque architecture, trulli, music and artisans who inhabit this piece of paradise. Puglia map and highlights
My travels will also take me back to Lucca, where I will stay with two opera singers (Lucca is Puccini central) and renew friendships from last year. I plan to visit Modena, capital of balsamic vinegar, to discover the perfect balsamic to complement my beautiful oils. My foodie and adventuress spirit will be soaring!
My website and shop, www.thevirtuousolive, will be stocked with a variety of olive oils and vinegars, and open for business after I return, mid October. Stay tuned for more details.
Sending you amore!
Ciao for now,
Mary – Maria
Wonderful!! Buon viaggio!!
Mary Joy
Mary, I am so excited for you and look forward not only to updates and images from your trip but also the OIL!!!!!!!!! I’ll make the bread!
xox
Woo hoo, congratulations Mary! Have a wonderful time in Italy!
Oh, now that does sound lovely!
I cannot wait to try your olive oil! If you love it I know it is going to be fabulous.
I have just posted the link to your blog for my Facebook friends. I have mentioned following you before to friends. LOVE the post on olive oil. You are living all of our ‘unlived lives.” Have a great time in Italy!
Thank you so much Stepheny! Yes I decided to live my dream. I hope to bring a bit of the true authentic Italy back home to share. I’m learning all there is about olive oil and especially how to cook with it. I am turning into an olive!!
Forgot to mention Lucca. Only there for lunch and a quick stroll but have recently down a lot of research for a novel I am writing where characters drive and stay there. I have decided if I could move to Italy, Lucca is where I would go (rather than Pienza, my other favorite place on tour) How lucky you are to have friends and a chance to be in Lucca. PLEASE write about it first chance you get. I’ll be waiting to know more about this special place. Thanks!
Ciao Stepheny! I just arrived in Lucca this evening. I am happy to help you with your research! I would like to visit Pienza on this trip. It is my mom’s favorite place too. I’ll keep you posted. Feel free to ask me questions that may need a native to answer. I’m staying inside the walls the next 10 days. Keep in touch!!
Hi my dear friend sounds wonderful is sooo cool I was in Modena I was going to get marry with a man name Italo I think so he owns a restaurant is been a long time ago love you Mary have fun
Buongiorno Roxana! Grazie for writing!! I am having the best time. We did the Vendemio (grape harvest) on Saturday and will go to another today. Lucca is the most beautiful city with gorgeous, lovely people. Can’t wait to share with you! Love to you and Tony! XXOO
I remember you talking about your olive oil! My mouth is watering… when can I buy some?
It has just arrived! Let me know what you want or I can show you a menu of options. Lots of good flavors to choose from!