In 2016 we embarked on a journey to invest our time and resources into rebuilding something meaningful that we hoped would make a difference in the future. Our love for the environment and deep connection with nature led us to a wild and beautiful landscape in Puglia, a region in Southern Italy widely known for its centennial olive trees but where youth unemployment is high, and where vast areas of land are fertile but often abandoned for lack of resources. Embracing the opportunity to contribute to its preservation, we purchased 5 hectares of neglected farmland.

Our journey to restore and regenerate our farmland began in earnest in 2018. Some 250 olive trees and half as many fruit and nut trees needed intensive care by means of pruning, soil enrichment and irrigation. We faced many challenges, not the least of which was, and still remains the Xylella Fastidiosa that is devastating the storied olive tree population in the region. We remain hopeful however, and together with our two formerly unemployed but committed young farmers, Mauro and Filiberto, we are dedicated to upholding the principles of organic farming and biodiverse design.

Our first olive harvest took place in October 2019, yielding a well-balanced, organic extra virgin olive oil, made exclusively from our Ogliarola Salentina and Cellina di Nardo olives. We harvest manually, and process the same day, ensuring the best quality and purity of our oil.

In the summer of 2020 we harvested our first pulses, and in the Fall of 2024 we expect to harvest our pomegranates and Susumaniello grapes for the first time. Our range of products will continue to grow as we go forward and remain committed to regenerative agriculture and in the restoration of an ecosystem. Giving back to the soil and creating opportunities for local farmers will remain at the heart of our journey.

Lesley & Hans Peter Imhof