Oro di Rufolo - Az. Agric. Ortoplant di Depalo M. & C. s.s.

ORTOPLANT AND ORO DI RUFOLO: THE EXCELLENCE OF APULIAN EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL
Ortoplant is a dynamic agricultural company founded by three young entrepreneurs, Michele Depalo, Luigi Stallone, and Leo Piscitelli, with the goal of producing vegetable seedlings. Thanks to their professionalism and experience, the company quickly established itself in the professional horticultural nursery sector. However, their deep connection to the land and the olive groves inherited from their fathers led Ortoplant to invest in the production of Apulian extra virgin olive oil, giving birth to the brand "Oro di Rufolo."
A COMMITMENT TO QUALITY AND TRADITION
Initially, the company owned only 5.5 hectares with just over 600 centuries-old olive trees. Through careful planning and a passion for olive growing, the cultivated area has expanded to 12 hectares, now hosting over 2,000 ancient olive trees of the prized "Ogliarola" and "Coratina" cultivars. Ogliarola is distinguished by its delicate and fruity taste, while Coratina is known for its intense flavor and high antioxidant properties.
The company has invested in targeted interventions to improve the land, replacing obsolete plants, optimizing planting layouts, and introducing certified young olive trees. All of this is done in compliance with organic farming practices to ensure the highest quality Apulian extra virgin olive oil.
Since 2012, when Ortoplant embarked on its journey in the world of Apulian extra virgin olive oil, its products have gained increasing recognition, earning awards in the most renowned guides dedicated to premium EVO oil and in major national and international competitions.
THE ORIGINS: A CENTURIES-OLD HISTORY
In the 13th century, Nicola Rufolo, a native of Ravello, built a splendid fortified farmhouse near Giovinazzo, in the province of Bari, where the precious "liquid gold" was produced from the olives harvested in the area. This structure, a unique example of rural architecture, has remained almost intact to this day, testifying to the enduring importance of extra virgin olive oil in this region.
The farmhouse still preserves traces of the hard work of the past: large stone mills, rock-carved basins, and underground cisterns tell a story of toil and dedication. Its imposing walls, internal walkways for defense against external attacks, and large barrel-vaulted "lamie" evoke an era when olive oil production was the beating heart of the local community. OUR DAILY COMMITMENT
Every day, we cross the Torre Rufolo district to reach our company, located in the very place that inspired the "Oro di Rufolo" brand. This name represents a symbolic passing of the torch, a tribute to tradition, and a continuous pursuit of excellence in the world of Apulian EVO oil.
Today, as in the past, the entire community enthusiastically participates in the harvesting and milling of the olives. Modern extraction techniques have made the work less arduous, but the passion and meticulous care in oil production remain unchanged. Thanks to these innovations, we are constantly improving the quality of our product, enhancing its unique characteristics.
LOOKING TO THE FUTURE
Ortoplant continues to grow, maintaining a strong bond with the land and its traditions. Our goal is to offer high-quality Apulian extra virgin olive oil that tells the story and authenticity of our region, combining innovation with environmental respect. "Oro di Rufolo" is not just a brand but a journey into the culture and passion for premium Apulian EVO oil—a treasure to be preserved and passed on to future generations.