FAQ
Why should I use Castruriali Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
As more of us explore the richness of single-origin foods, Castruriali Sicilian Extra Virgin Olive Oil represents a natural progression for those who value quality, purity and heritage in their ingredients.
Unlike many mass-produced olive oils, our oil is made from rare, native Sicilian cultivars grown in the pristine groves of Castroreale and Salemi—both iconic, untouched terroirs in Sicily. With every drop, you experience the vibrant and complex flavour unique to this landscape, captured by decades of dedication and first-hand expertise. Each olive is carefully handpicked at its peak, then cold-pressed, hand-bottled and quality checked by Antonio Mandanici to preserve its freshness and flavour, ensuring the polyphenol-rich oils maintain their full health benefits.
Choosing Castruriali means you’re supporting a heritage: our work is not only to bring this exceptional oil to your kitchen but to restore and protect these ancient groves for generations to come. The difference is in every taste—the purity of small-batch, single-origin olive oil crafted by artisans, untouched by the compromises of mass production. With Castruriali, you savour the very essence of Sicily: a rich, peppery, nutty finish and the healthiest, most authentic experience that sets it apart from any standard extra virgin olive oil.
With over 60 years of dedication, Antonio brings unmatched passion and expertise to your table. His hands-on approach and deep-rooted love for his craft make Castruriali olive oil truly one of a kind.
Why should I choose Castruriali over other extra virgin olive oils?
Castruriali offers a level of quality and transparency that sets it apart from most other oils. While many olive oils—even premium brands—blend olives from different regions or source them through intermediaries, Castruriali is entirely single-origin and produced from our own groves in Sicily. We hand-select and cold-press our olives right at peak ripeness, preserving their full flavour and natural health benefits.
By controlling every step of production, we ensure the purity, nutritional integrity and fresh, vibrant taste unique to our oil. With Castruriali, you also enjoy complete traceability—you can even see footage of the very trees your olives were harvested from, connecting you directly to Sicily’s rich heritage. Castruriali isn’t just another extra virgin olive oil; it’s a truly authentic, farm-to-table experience for those who value exceptional artisan quality and flavour.
What are the best uses for Castruriali extra virgin olive oil?
Castruriali extra virgin olive oil is incredibly versatile and enhances a wide range of dishes. Here are some of the best uses:
Drizzling: Use it as a finishing oil over salads, grilled vegetables or roasted meats to elevate their flavours.
Dips and Dressings: Create delicious dressings or dips by mixing it with balsamic vinegar, lemon juice or herbs.
Cooking: While ideal for drizzling, you can also use it for sautéing or baking at low to medium temperatures, preserving its unique taste.
Marinades: Incorporate it into marinades for meats, fish or tofu to infuse them with rich, authentic flavours.
Bread Dipping: Serve it alongside freshly baked bread as a simple yet delightful appetiser.
Finishing Touch: Add a splash to soups, stews or pasta dishes right before serving for an extra layer of depth.
Straight from the Spoon: Enjoy a teaspoon of Castruriali extra virgin olive oil on its own to appreciate its rich flavour and health benefits.
By using Castruriali extra virgin olive oil, you not only enhance your culinary creations but also enjoy the health benefits of high-quality, pure olive oil.
Can I use Castruriali extra virgin olive oil with other condiments and spices?
Absolutely! Castruriali extra virgin olive oil pairs beautifully with a wide range of condiments, spices and seasonings. Here’s a full list of delicious combinations to consider:
Vinegars: Balsamic, red wine, white wine, apple cider or sherry vinegar for vibrant dressings and marinades.
Citrus Juices: Lemon, lime or orange juice to brighten up dishes and enhance flavours.
Herbs: Fresh or dried herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, parsley or dill for added aroma and taste.
Garlic: Minced or roasted garlic to infuse a robust flavour into dressings, marinades and cooked dishes.
Chili Flakes: Red pepper flakes for a spicy kick in dressings, marinades or drizzles.
Spices: Ground spices like paprika, cumin, coriander, turmeric or black pepper to complement the oil’s flavour.
Salts: Sea salt, Himalayan salt, or flavored salts (like garlic or herb salt) to enhance the overall taste of dishes.
Mustards: Dijon or whole grain mustard for a zesty vinaigrette or marinade.
Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of honey or maple syrup for a sweet and savory dressing or glaze.
Fresh Peppers: Sliced jalapeños, bell peppers or other fresh peppers for a burst of flavour and colour.
Cheese: Crumbled feta, Parmesan or goat cheese to add richness to salads and pasta dishes.
Castruriali’s rich, authentic flavour enhances any combination, making it a perfect foundation for your culinary creations. Enjoy experimenting with different pairings to discover your favourite combinations!
How much Castruriali extra virgin olive oil should I use when cooking?
The amount of Castruriali extra virgin olive oil you should use when cooking can vary depending on the dish and your personal preference. As a general guideline:
For sautéing: Use about 1-2 tablespoons to coat the pan and add flavour to your ingredients.
In dressings or marinades: A typical ratio is about 3 parts olive oil to 1 part vinegar or citrus juice, but you can adjust based on your taste.
For drizzling: A teaspoon or tablespoon can enhance the flavour of finished dishes, like salads or grilled vegetables.
In baking: Use it in place of butter or other oils, generally following the same volume as the recipe calls for.
Feel free to adjust the amounts to suit your taste—Castruriali's rich flavour makes it a delightful addition to any dish!
How long will Castruriali extra virgin olive oil last?
Castruriali extra virgin olive oil has a recommended shelf life of 2 years. Bottled in Verdetrusco® green glass to protect it from light and with a low peroxide level, it retains its freshness and quality even longer when stored in a cool, dark place.
Following these guidelines helps preserve its rich flavour, purity and health benefits for the best possible experience.
How should I store Castruriali extra virgin olive oil?
To maintain the freshness and quality of Castruriali extra virgin olive oil, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources. The ideal temperature is between 15-20°C (59-68°F). Keeping it in its original Verdetrusco® green glass bottle helps protect it from light, which can degrade the oil over time. Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed when not in use to prevent exposure to air. Proper storage will help you enjoy the rich flavours and health benefits of Castruriali for as long as possible.
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil 100% made in Italy?
Yes, Castruriali products are 100% made in Italy. We take pride in the authenticity and quality of our oil, ensuring that every step of the production process—from cultivation to bottling—takes place in Italy, reflecting the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of Sicilian olive oil.
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil gluten-free?
Yes, Castruriali extra virgin olive oil is naturally gluten-free. As a pure oil extracted from olives, it contains no gluten or gluten-containing ingredients. It’s a safe and healthy choice for anyone with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, allowing you to enjoy its rich flavour and health benefits without worry.
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil organic?
While Castruriali does not carry formal organic certification, we prioritise sustainable practices that ensure the health and vitality of our olive groves. Our cultivation methods focus on the quality of the soil and the well-being of our trees, often using natural processes that align with organic principles. However, we believe that organic certification can sometimes lead to inferior products due to restrictions on certain beneficial practices. Our commitment is to produce the highest quality extra virgin olive oil, emphasising flavour, purity and sustainability without the constraints of organic labelling.
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil non-GMO?
Yes, Castruriali extra virgin olive oil is non-GMO. Our olives are naturally grown without the use of genetically modified organisms. We prioritise traditional cultivation methods that respect the integrity of the olives and the environment, ensuring you receive a pure and authentic product. You can enjoy Castruriali with the peace of mind that it aligns with your values regarding non-GMO food.
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil healthy?
Yes, Castruriali extra virgin olive oil is incredibly healthy and offers a range of benefits. Rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and antioxidants, it supports cardiovascular health and can help reduce inflammation. Our oil is packed with naturally occurring polyphenols and vitamin E, which protect cells from oxidative stress and promote overall wellness. Unlike many oils, Castruriali is crafted from high-quality, carefully selected olives, ensuring it retains maximum nutrients, flavour and purity, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet.
We offer standard Royal Mail shipping within the UK, covering both postage and packaging. Shipping charges will be clearly displayed at checkout and you may choose to upgrade to a faster, tracked service if preferred.
International shipping is also available to most countries. If your country is not listed at checkout, please contact us directly and we’ll do our best to accommodate your request.
We aim to pack and dispatch orders within 3 working days, with UK deliveries typically arriving within 5 working days (longer for international deliveries). Please note that delivery times may be affected by circumstances beyond our control.
If you wish to cancel an order, please get in touch as soon as possible and we’ll assist if it hasn’t yet been dispatched.
For any questions about our delivery or returns policy, please feel free to reach out via our contact page.
This policy does not affect your statutory rights.
What is your shipping policy?
We strive to ensure every bottle of Castruriali extra virgin olive oil reaches you in perfect condition. Due to the nature of extra virgin olive oil, we generally do not accept returns once the product has been opened. However, we are committed to your satisfaction and if you experience any issues with your order, please let us know.
What is your refund policy?
Refunds and Returns
Unopened Items: If you change your mind, you may return unopened bottles within 14 days of receipt. The product must be in its original packaging and you will be responsible for return shipping costs. Please contact us first to arrange the return.
Damaged or Defective Items: If your bottle arrives damaged or you believe it is defective in any way, please contact us within 7 days of receipt. We may request photos of the item to assess the issue and will gladly arrange a replacement or a refund as appropriate.
Satisfaction Guarantee: We take pride in our product and want you to have a great experience. If you’re unhappy with your purchase for any reason, please reach out to us directly and we’ll work with you to make it right.
Please note that this policy does not affect your statutory rights.
Yes, Castruriali offers wholesale options for businesses looking to carry our premium Sicilian extra virgin olive oil. We work with select partners who share our commitment to quality and authenticity. For more information on wholesale pricing, minimum order quantities and partnership opportunities, please contact us directly and we’d be happy to discuss how we can work together.
Do you supply wholesale?
Yes, Castruriali offers custom order options for customers with specific needs. Whether you’re interested in unique quantities, bespoke packaging or special gifting arrangements, we’re here to help. Please contact us directly to discuss your ideas and we’ll work with you to create a customised order that meets your requirements.
Can I make a custom order?
Is Castruriali extra virgin olive oil available in the supermarket?
Castruriali extra virgin olive oil is crafted with a level of quality and authenticity that’s rare to find in supermarket brands. Most oils available in supermarkets are blended from various sources, often mixing lower-grade oils to achieve a cost-effective, uniform product. This approach sacrifices the purity and depth of flavour that true extra virgin olive oil offers, as well as the beneficial nutrients and polyphenols that come with an unadulterated oil.
Due to the scarcity of premium extra virgin olive oil, large brands often "dilute" their oils, combining them with cheaper or lesser-quality oils from different regions and even different harvests. This allows them to produce oil in bulk and at lower prices, but it diminishes both the taste and health benefits. What’s labeled as extra virgin in these settings may not fully meet the standards you’d expect from a true, single-origin product like Castruriali.
Castruriali takes a different approach. Our olives are grown in carefully tended Sicilian groves, hand-selected and cold-pressed with absolute attention to quality at every stage. Our oil is never blended with other sources; instead, it’s a pure expression of the olives and terroir that make it unique. This dedication results in a higher cost, but it also means that Castruriali offers an extraordinary value for an artisanal oil - one of its kind.
By remaining outside of mass retail, Castruriali preserves the integrity and traceability of our oil, ensuring that each bottle reflects the excellence, flavour and authenticity that discerning customers appreciate.
Yes, you can purchase Castruriali products in Castroreale, Sicily or through our official retail partners. We partner exclusively with companies that share our commitment to quality and values.
Can I buy Castruriali in-store?
