As mentioned in the introductory article (if you haven’t read it yet, click here), Iseo Lake, with its unique characteristics, is particularly well-suited to olive cultivation. However, the terrain is quite difficult to cultivate; the steep slopes and limited space often make manual labour necessary. But despite these difficulties, a few determined individuals, driven above all by passion and love for their land, have organised and created small farms working hard to offer a very high-quality product.
Among these local producers, we especially wish to present you the farm La Ruina, led by Diego Turelli, who chose this path from his young age, pursuing studies as an agricultural technician and after gaining work experience in some local wine-growing companies, he decided to follow his dream: leave everything behind and begin managing an olive grove in Sale Marasino, a property held by his family for three generations.
Some documents from 1943 describe this olive grove as composed of 25 trees which were productive already for over ten years, some of them of century-old age.
This is located on land highly suited to olive cultivation and the longevity of the trees. From this, an excellent oil is produced, pleasantly aromatic, with very low acidity and rich in polyphenols.
The harvest is carried out manually, using mechanical facilitators and keeping the olive varieties (Sbresa, Frantoio, Leccino, Pendolino, and Casaliva) separated. This allows for the creation of different products, all bottled under strict supervision in the farm’s own laboratory.
In 2023, Diego expanded his business by adding an olive grove in the municipality of Monte Isola, a truly unique territory, contributing to preserving a traditional activity in this particular land.
La Ruina offers the following olive oil labels:
- Cuvée Ruina: a refined blend of all cultivated varieties (Frantoio, Leccino, Pendolino, and Casaliva), combined according to carefully tested proportions. Ideal for adding a flavourful yet delicate touch to any dish.
- Oro di Paolo: made exclusively from Sbresa olives, this oil has a richer taste and is perfect enjoyed on bread or for dressing classic bruschetta.
- Il Leccio: produced with Leccio del Corno olives only, this full-bodied, robust oil pairs beautifully with red meats.
- L’Isola: a delicate and elegant extra virgin olive oil of exceptional quality, made only with olives grown in the splendid and unique territory of Monte Isola.
To discover La Ruina’s products, you can contact Diego directly or check out their social channels to see in which local markets you can find them during your stay.
Azienda Agricola La Ruina di Diego Turelli
WhatsApp e Tel. +39 3478917756
e-mail: diegoturelli@gmail.com
Instagram: la_ruina_olioevo
Facebook: La Ruina Olio Evo
