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Frantoio

Italy · Tuscany

The benchmark of Tuscan oil — fresh grass, artichoke and green almond in fine balance, with a clean bitter-pungent finish. The reference Italian variety.

MediumItalyMedium–high polyphenolOil
Profile

Frantoio is the cornerstone of classic Tuscan olive oil and one of the most respected varieties in the world, planted from Italy to Australia, Argentina and California. Its oil is the model of balance: fresh-cut grass, artichoke and green almond, with green-fruit aromatics and a harmonious bitterness and pepper that linger without overwhelming. It is the variety most often meant by 'a good Italian extra virgin', and it blends beautifully with the softer Leccino.

Flavor

Balanced and classic: fresh grass, artichoke and green almond, clean bitter-pungent close.

Fresh GrassArtichokeGreen AlmondGreen FruitPepper

Taste Axes (0–5)

Fruitiness4
Bitterness3
Pungency3
Grassy / Herbal3.5
Sweetness2.5
Intensity3.5
Harvest Window — Northern Hemisphere

Harvested from late October through December across central Italy. Buy the freshest crop you can find — and check the harvest date on the bottle.

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At a Glance
CountryItaly
RegionTuscany
Also calledFrantoiano, Razza, Paesano
IntensityMedium
PolyphenolsMedium–high
RipeningMid–late
Used forOil
In the Kitchen
Finishing soups & beansBruschettaGrilled meats & fishSaladsBistecca alla Fiorentina
Sources