PRODUCER & TERROIR
A FAMILY BUSINESS PASSED FROM FATHER TO SON
Fabio Trunfio is passionate about growing bergamots, which is why he took over his father’s family business. With the help of his own son, he cultivates a 15-hectare orchard in the province of Reggio Calabria. This small family operation employs five people year-round and 10 local seasonal workers during the harvest, which takes place from October to February.
TERROIR
The weather conditions in Italy’s Reggio Calabria province are humid, sunny, and windy, making it an ideal location for bergamot-growing. This unique area helps the fruit’s aromas to develop, so it’s particularly intense and makes a high-quality juice.
“We have not used chemicals in our orchards for over 10 years and our bergamots are all the better for it.”
Bergamot producer Fabio Trunfio at his family business
GROWING TECHNIQUES
GROWING TECHNIQUES THAT PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT
Fabio is committed to a more environmentally friendly way of farming fruit. He has been growing his bergamots a new way since 2012, using agroecology practices. He lets the grass grow in his orchards to capture nitrogen and preserve and revitalize the soil. He also nourishes his trees with organic fertilizer. Fabio is particularly attentive to how much water he gives his orchards, using his own well to provide his trees with just the right amount.
ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL ACTION
THE HISTORY OF BERGAMOT TOLD BY ITS GROWERS
The Patea family wants to maintain the link between bergamots, Calabria’s cultural identity, and the local community, which is why it has set up initiatives to raise awareness of the fruit, its benefits and its history. Local people are invited to open days at the farm, where they can learn how bergamot juice and essential oil are extracted. The fruit’s essential oil is considered highly precious and much prized by top perfumers.
