In Oliveto Citra, a Family Mill Advances Research, Sustainability, and Quality

By Ylenia Granitto — Olive Oil Times
Published Dec. 1, 2025

A Legacy Rooted in the Hills of Oliveto Citra

Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Upper Sele River Valley in Campania’s Salerno province, Oliveto Citra has been home to Oleificio Dell’Orto since the 1870s. The scenic village, named after the Italian word for “olive grove,” reflects a centuries-old vocation for olive cultivation.

Founded by Vito Dell’Orto, the mill is now run by the fourth generation of the family: brothers Polidoro and Sergio Dell’Orto. Over its long history, the mill has continually embraced innovation while preserving tradition.

“One of our oldest trees is a Carpellese, a symbol of our company’s history with its beautiful and imposing presence.”
— Polidoro Dell’Orto

Innovation Through the Generations

From early hand-operated winches to hydraulic presses and modern centrifuges, the Dell’Orto family has guided the evolution of extraction technology for more than 150 years.

• In 1998, the family introduced cutting-edge milling technology to the area.
• Since then, they have replaced three entire extraction systems, always seeking quality improvements.
• Today, the company operates a continuous-cycle cold-extraction system and collaborates directly with manufacturers like Alfa Laval to fine-tune performance.

The orchards surrounding the mill include approximately 1,500 olive trees, showcasing both ancient and new plantings. The family mainly cultivates Carpellese and Rotondella, producing two premium extra virgin olive oils—each earning top honors at the 2025 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition.

Deepening Knowledge Through Research

Research is central to the Dell’Orto philosophy.

Genetic Studies of Native Varieties

The company is partnering with CREA (Italy’s agricultural research council) to identify the genotypes of lesser-known olive varieties still thriving in their groves.

Wastewater, Pomace & Sustainability

Working with Italy’s National Research Council (CNR), the mill explores innovative uses for olive by-products, including:

• Biomass derived from olive pits
• Soil-enriching peat created by fermenting olive leaves for 18 months
• Potential medical applications of compounds found in olive pomace

Nothing from the olive tree is wasted—a guiding principle that shapes every part of the operation.

A Commitment to Sustainability

The Dell’Orto estate is powered in part by photovoltaic solar panels, and many local farmers who partner with the mill have transitioned to organic farming.

Their premium oils carry:

• Organic certification
• DOP Colline Salernitane designation

These guarantees reinforce the authenticity, traceability, and regional identity of their products.

Working Hand-in-Hand with Local Farmers

Beyond milling their own olives, the Dell’Orto family collaborates closely with area growers. Their agronomic team monitors groves year-round and purchases top-grade olives to create a dedicated line sourced from roughly 2,000 additional trees.

This collaboration strengthens the region’s agricultural economy while ensuring consistent excellence in the mill’s output.

A Global Presence with Local Roots

Approximately 50 percent of Dell’Orto’s production is exported, reaching premium markets in:

• Japan
• The United States
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• Australia

International buyers value the mill’s environmental stewardship, transparent practices, and the pristine landscape of Oliveto Citra—untouched by heavy industry and rich in biodiversity.

Education, Community, and Oleotourism

In response to depopulation challenges in rural Italy, the Dell’Orto family has committed themselves to education and community engagement, offering:

• Student tours of groves and the mill
• Tasting courses for future chefs
• Workshops on healthy eating for children
• Local events highlighting olive culture and sustainability

This has encouraged new B&Bs, agritourism sites, and vacation rentals, positioning Oliveto Citra as an emerging oleotourism destination.

A Living Landscape Shared with Animals & Nature

The groves are intentionally left unfenced, welcoming:

• Chickens
• Sheep from a local shepherd
• Neighboring horses
• Foxes and other wildlife

Animals help maintain the ecosystem naturally, reaffirming the health of the environment and the quality of the oils produced.

“There is a natural synergy between the animals and the thriving groves… safeguarding the land is the only way to produce truly high-quality extra virgin olive oils.”
— Polidoro Dell’Orto

A Family Tradition That Continues Today

From innovative research to heritage preservation, Oleificio Dell’Orto exemplifies how a family mill can advance sustainability, education, and excellence—while honoring traditions that began nearly 150 years ago.

Their story stands as a testament to the land, the people, and the timeless craft of producing world-class extra virgin olive oil in Oliveto Citra.