The Journey Begins
On 4th November 2023, Castruriali was born—not just as an idea but as a tangible, ambitious project rooted in the rich soil of Castroreale, Sicily. This trip was the beginning of something extraordinary: a mission to revive the ancient, rare Nustrali olive variety and bring its exquisite flavour to the world.
I was joined on this pivotal journey by my trusted friend and business partner, Marco Rappazzo, whose deep connection to the region made this venture possible. Together, we explored the village and its surroundings, accompanied by Marco’s brother Luca Rappazzo and his family. It was a meeting of minds, hearts and shared purpose as we sought to uncover the secrets of Nustrali—a native variety steeped in tradition and almost forgotten by time.
Connecting with Castroreale
From the moment we arrived, Castroreale’s charm was undeniable. Perched high above the surrounding landscape, its cobbled streets and timeless architecture spoke of resilience and history. As we walked through the village, meeting locals who welcomed us with warmth and curiosity, I felt a deep connection to the land and its people.
The locals shared their knowledge of the Nustrali olive, a variety unique to this region. With their insights, we began to grasp not only its exceptional quality but also the challenges of preserving such a rare and precious cultivar.
Laying the Foundations
One of the most significant milestones of the trip was agreeing the purchase of our warehouse and surrounding land—the cornerstone of what would become Castruriali. This space will serve as both a production hub and a symbol of our commitment to restoring the traditions of Sicilian olive oil making.
We also had the privilege of spending time with Antonio and Giuseppe Mandanici, our business partners, whose expertise in olive oil production is second to none. On Sunday morning, Antonio graciously demonstrated his craft, firing up his mill to press a fresh batch of Nustrali olives. Watching the process unfold was mesmerising—cold extraction at its finest. The vibrant aroma of freshly pressed oil filled the air, giving us a glimpse of the incredible potential ahead.
Exploring Messina and Dreaming Big
Marco also took the time to show me more of the Messina province, including the coastal town of Milazzo. The stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and the timeless beauty of the region were inspiring, serving as a backdrop to our discussions about the future of Castruriali. The Castello di Milazzo (Milazzo Castle) is one of the largest in Sicily and is a must-see for history enthusiasts and travellers exploring the region.
We spoke at length about the enormous challenges ahead—restoring over a million olive trees, building a global community and sharing the story of Nustrali with the world. It was daunting yet exhilarating.
A Euphoric Ending in Catania
The trip concluded in Catania, a city alive with history, culture and energy. As I wandered its bustling streets, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of euphoria about the journey ahead. The sights, sounds and flavours of Sicily filled me with optimism and determination.
Adding to the magic of this final chapter, I had the pleasure of meeting some wonderful people from the Bangladeshi community in Catania. Their warmth and hospitality were unforgettable, as they welcomed me with open arms and shared stories of their own journeys. Their kindness and sense of community left a lasting impression on me, serving as a reminder that even in unfamiliar places, one can find connection and belonging.
This was the beginning of Castruriali—a project born from passion, perseverance and a deep respect for tradition. Looking back, that November trip was more than just the start of a business. It was the start of a legacy, one that we are honoured to share with the world.
As I reflect on that transformative journey, I am reminded that great things often begin in the smallest of places—with a vision, a commitment and the courage to take the first step.
Saluti,
Yazdaan Hussain
Director, Castruriali
