Olive Oil Producers: The Traldi Family
The olive oil tradition of the Traldi family began in the year 1960 when Angelo Traldi, a resident of Rome, acquired a 150-hectare estate in the charming location of La Carrozza, Vetralla, nestled within the Tuscia region of Viterbo.
This region had a long-standing reputation among the indigenous Etruscan and Roman populations for its exceptional olive-growing capabilities and the production of high-quality olive oil.
Nowadays, Angelo's daughter Elisabetta Traldi and his granddaughter Francesca Boni continue and develop the work he started.
Vetralla, the area where the Traldi family's estate is situated, has a rich historical background as it was once a thriving hub for commercial exchanges between the Etruscans, Greeks, and Phoenicians.
The archaeological remnants of Tarquinia, located in this picturesque region bear testament to the deep-rooted olive culture that has thrived here since the 6th century BC. Today, the region proudly boasts the coveted D.O.P. Tuscia (Protected Designation of Origin) designation, recognizing the exceptional quality of its olive oil.
Francesca Boni, the granddaughter of Angelo Traldi, has embraced her family's legacy and breathed new life into the business. With a passion for producing exceptional extra virgin olive oil, she has dedicated herself to acquiring specialized knowledge and skills.
This expertise allows her to enhance the flavors and qualities of the various olive cultivars grown on the estate, including Frantoio, Moraiolo, Leccino, Pendolino, and the native Caninese variety, which is specific to Tuscia.
Supported by her mother, Elisabetta Traldi, and a team of skilled professionals, Francesca ensures meticulous oversight of every stage of olive cultivation on the estate, respecting nature and preserving the integrity of their product.
The Traldi family takes great care in monitoring the olive groves throughout the year to guarantee the health and quality of the fruit at harvest time. The olives are hand-picked at the beginning of their ripening process in the early morning hours, ensuring that their nutritional properties remain intact.
The fruits are then carefully placed in well-ventilated containers, shielded from light and heat, and undergo mechanical cold-press extraction methods before 6:00 PM on the same day. The packaging and storage of the oil occur in controlled environments that maintain optimal conditions for its preservation.
Within the estate, the Traldi family cultivates olive varieties that have been passed down through generations, specifically the traditional cultivars of the region. These include Frantoio, Moraiolo, Pendolino, Leccino, and the esteemed native Canino or Caninese variety.
Each tree is meticulously nurtured and attended to throughout its lifecycle, ensuring that they receive the utmost care and respect for nature's processes. This diligent approach extends from cultivation to harvest, milling, and beyond, guaranteeing that the resulting oil preserves all the precious properties bestowed upon it by nature.
The Traldi family's commitment to their heritage and the pursuit of excellence has solidified their reputation as esteemed olive oil producers. Their dedication to quality, respect for tradition, and a deep-rooted connection to the land has shaped their story and earned them the admiration of olive oil enthusiasts both locally and beyond.
But enough words. Here are three masterpieces for you: Elektia, Athos and Eximius. Just taste these olive oils and you'll discover the wonderful history and olive oil traditions of the Traldi family.