Staying at Casa Luna means immersing yourself in the beating heart of the Euganean Hills Regional Park. If the Thermal Baths of Montegrotto are famous throughout the world for their curative waters, there is another "liquid treasure" born on these volcanic hills: the Veneto Euganei e Berici DOP Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVO). In this guide, we will take you to discover a millenary product, explaining why it is so special, how to taste it, and where you can purchase it just a few minutes from our structure.
A "Volcanic" Oil: Characteristics and Varieties
Olive growing on the Euganean Hills has very ancient roots, dating back to the Roman era. The secret of its quality lies in the soil of volcanic origin and in the mild microclimate enjoyed by the hilly slopes, protected from the cold winds of the north.
The Native Cultivars
The oil of the Euganean Hills is distinguished by the use of main local varieties (cultivars), each with its own personality:
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Rasara: The most widespread, it gives a medium fruity oil with notes of almond and cut grass.
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Marzemina: Rarer, it produces a delicate oil with scents reminiscent of kiwi and green apple.
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Rondella: Confers balance and scents of aromatic herbs.
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Matosso: For those who love bold flavors, with notes of artichoke and tomato.
Organoleptic Profile
On the palate, the DOP oil of our hills presents itself with a color ranging from emerald green to golden yellow. It is famous for its low acidity (often lower than 0.5%) and for a perfect balance between bitter and spicy, making it ideal both raw and in the kitchen.
🧐 How to recognize a true Quality EVO Oil
For Casa Luna tourists, oil tasting can be a fascinating sensory experience. Here are the three key steps:
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The Visual Examination: The color can vary from bright green to golden gold. Contrary to popular belief, color does not necessarily indicate quality, but only the maturity of the olives and the variety.
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The Olfactory Examination: Warm the glass with the palm of your hand to release the aromas. A good oil from the Euganean Hills must smell fresh: notes of freshly cut grass, artichoke, or green tomato. If you smell a "closed" or moldy odor, it is not a high-quality oil.
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The Gustatory Examination (The "Stripping"): Inhale the oil with small sips of air between your teeth. You should perceive Bitterness (presence of antioxidant polyphenols) and Pungency (stinging in the throat), both signs of freshness and health.
📍 Itinerary between Oil and History: From Montegrotto to Arquà Petrarca
We have thought of an ideal itinerary for an unforgettable half-day, starting right from Casa Luna.
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Stage 1: Galzignano Terme (5 min by car / 15 by bike) Head towards the Frantoio del Poeta. Here you can admire the modern machinery that cold-processes the olives collected on the surrounding slopes. It is the perfect place to buy the first bottles of Rasara.
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Stage 2: The Village of the Poet (Arquà Petrarca) Continue towards Arquà Petrarca, one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Italy. Make a stop at Evo del Borgo. You will be able to taste award-winning oils and their famous "Vulcanico". Don't forget to combine the visit with Petrarch's house!
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Stage 3: Cornoleda and the panorama If you are looking for absolute excellence, go up towards the Frantoio di Cornoleda (Cinto Euganeo), often awarded with the "Stars" of Gambero Rosso for the quality of its products.
Where to Buy: Producers and Prices
The local artisanal oil is a niche product. Here is an estimate of prices to orient you during your purchases:
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500ml Bottle: from €12.00 to €18.00 — Ideal for a refined gift.
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3 Liter Can: from €55.00 to €70.00 — Excellent quality/price ratio for supplies.
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5 Liter Can: from €85.00 to €110.00 — The most convenient choice for families.
💡 The Host's Advice: Other Mills not to be missed
Besides the most well-known names, the Euganean Hills hide other gems that deserve a visit:
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Frantoio Valnogaredo (Cinto Euganeo): One of the most historical in the area, perfect for those looking for a family welcome and an oil with an authentic flavor that reflects local tradition.
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Cooperativa Olivicoltori (Galzignano Terme): A fundamental point of reference that collects the olives of many small producers. It offers a wide choice of formats and very competitive prices.
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Azienda Agricola Callegari (Arquà Petrarca): Small reality of excellence located right in the heart of the medieval village, ideal for those looking for an exclusive product after a historical walk.
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Azienda Agricola San Nazario (Vo' Euganeo): Recommended if you wish to discover the western side of the hills, perhaps combining the purchase of organic oil with a tasting of local red wines.
How to enjoy it best at Casa Luna?
In the kitchen of our house, you will find everything necessary to prepare a typical dinner. Stop by a mill, buy a bottle and try it simply on a warm bread bruschetta or on a plate of "bigoli". It is the best way to savor the soul of our territory.
Note for travelers:
The harvest takes place between mid-October and mid-November. If you stay with us during that period, you can witness the pressing live and buy the "very new" oil, cloudy and with an incredibly intense flavor!
❓ FAQ
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What makes the oil of the Euganean Hills different from others? The volcanic soil transmits unique minerals to the plants, while the "borderline" geographical position (one of the most northern in Europe) pushes the olive tree to produce more polyphenols and antioxidants to protect itself, making the oil extremely healthy and flavorful.
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Can I bring the oil on the plane if I only have hand luggage? No, liquids over 100ml are not allowed in the cabin. However, almost all the mills we have indicated offer a secure shipping service directly to your home throughout Europe.
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What is the best time to see the production? The harvest and pressing take place between mid-October and mid-November. If you stay at Casa Luna in this period, you will be able to witness the processing live and purchase the "very new" oil, with an intense green color and a vibrant flavor.
Read our Pillar Article: "Euganean Flavors: A Food and Wine Guide among Vineyards and Traditions"
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