Farm to Fork: Top Tips
Exploring the local food landscape means diving into centuries-old olive groves. One of the most authentic experiences is at Masseria Spina, where guided tours take you through ancient underground mills and culminate in a tasting of three extra-virgin olive oils - you’ll learn to distinguish different aromas, peppery notes, and textures.
Another great spot is Palazzina Tommaso in a nearby masseria, where you can stroll through organic gardens, walk among olive trees, and taste oils made from local cultivars - deeply rooted in Apulian tradition.
For a more immersive agrarian journey, book a full olive-oil farm visit via TerraCheVive, which offers authentic farm tours including tastings of oils, local cheeses, taralli, olives, and cold cuts.
If you prefer tasting in a historic setting, then Frantoio Savoia, close to Monopoli, is ideal: here you can explore monumental olive trees, descend into a medieval oil mill, and sip oils guided by expert sommeliers.
Finally, keep in mind the importance of olive variety in this region: in the province of Bari (which includes Monopoli and Polignano) traditional olive cultivars like Coratina, Leccino, and Ogliarola give the local olive oil its distinctive bitterness, fruitiness, and peppery finish.
