As a company with Sicilian roots, we have a deep-rooted appreciation for the island’s rich agricultural heritage. One of our oldest and most cherished partners, Barbera Olive Oil, embodies this passion, crafting extra virgin olive oil that captures the heart and soul of Sicily. Just last year, Barbera celebrated its 135^th anniversary, a testament to its enduring legacy and dedication to producing high-quality olive oil. For over a century, Barbera has combined generations of expertise, a deep connection to the land, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Spanning five generations, this family-run company seamlessly blends tradition with innovation, sharing the excellence of Sicilian olive oil with the world.

The Barbera Family

The story of Barbera Olive Oil dates back to 1894, when Lorenzo Barbera began farming near Palermo, Sicily. Believe it or not, the company didn’t start with olive oil—it first exported citrus fruits across Europe before ultimately falling in love with olives. In his family, Lorenzo was known to say, “On the seventh day, God rested, and pleased with having created the world, He took the Earth into His hands and kissed it… Sicily lies right there, where God laid His lips.” This profound love for Sicily became the foundation of a legacy that has thrived for over 130 years. Each generation has refined the craft, producing oils that are not only rich in flavor but also steeped in history and authenticity.

The Heart of Barbera: Sicily’s Unique Terroir

With its sun-drenched groves and mineral-rich soil, what’s there not to love about Sicily? The region’s mediterranean climate and fertile soil create the perfect environment for cultivating high-quality olives. Barbera carefully sources its olives from the island’s best-growing regions, particularly in the west, selecting native varieties such as Biancolilla, Cerasuola, and Nocellara del Belice. Each variety brings something unique to the table: Nocellara del Belice offers a buttery texture with a subtle spice, Biancolilla is delicate and floral, while Cerasuola delivers a bold, peppery kick. This meticulous approach results in olive oils with complex aromas and well-balanced flavors—each a true reflection of Sicily’s authentic taste.

Innovation Meets Tradition: The Barbera Production Process

Barbera masterfully blends time-honored techniques with innovative technology to create exceptional olive oil. At their modern facility in Custonaci, located in the province of Trapani, olives are harvested at peak ripeness and swiftly cold-pressed to lock in their vibrant flavors and nutrients. Barbera is one of the few producers with five distinct milling systems—discs, hammers, opposing stone rollers, pitting, and a combination of discs and hammers—to tailor the extraction process for different olive varieties. Their diverse range includes monocultivar oils, carefully blended varieties, organic options, and unfiltered olive oils.

A Commitment to Quality & Sustainability

What sets Barbera apart isn’t just its exceptional oil—it’s the company’s unwavering dedication to quality and sustainability. Every step of production, from olive selection to bottling, is carefully monitored to meet the highest standards. Barbera also prioritizes sustainable practices, supporting responsible farming practices and ensuring an eco-friendly production process.

In 2001, Barbera took charge of CO.FI.OL. (the Olive-Growers Consortium), the most important organization of its kind in southern Italy. This initiative united Sicily’s olive-growing community, encompassing 5,000 small olive growers, 300 farms, 60 mills, and six packaging plants—all working together to protect and promote high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

Barbera’s dedication to excellence has earned international recognition. The company proudly represented Sicily at prestigious international events such as the 1900 World Fair in Paris and the 1904 and 1906 World Fairs in Saint Louis and Palermo, winning international acclaim. A true pioneer in the industry, Barbera was also the first to bottle extra virgin olive oil in glass, revolutionizing long-distance transport. More recently, Barbera has received accolades from Gambero Rosso, the Italian Food Awards USA, and the Sofi Awards Specialty Food Competition in New York.

The Taste of Sicily in Every Bottle

Beloved by chefs, restaurateurs, and specialty grocery buyers, Barbera Olive Oil has built a reputation for excellence. Its unmistakable Sicilian character and dedication to quality make it a top choice for those who appreciate authentic Mediterranean flavors. With a diverse selection of extra virgin olive oils, customers can choose between robust, peppery blends or delicate, fruity varieties.

Perfect for drizzling over fresh salads, enhancing pasta dishes, or finishing grilled meats and vegetables, Barbera Olive Oil elevates both gourmet creations and everyday meals. Its well-balanced profile enhances flavors without overpowering, making it an essential ingredient for professional kitchens and home cooks alike.

Whether you’re crafting a culinary masterpiece or adding a touch of Sicilian tradition to your dishes, Barbera Olive Oil brings authenticity, flavor, and heritage to every drop.