Familia Zuccardi, | Mendoza, Argentina

MEET THE MAKER

Familia Zuccardi is best known as one of Argentina’s most respected winemaking families, but the family’s passion for Mendoza extends well beyond the vineyard. Under the direction of third-generation family member Miguel Zuccardi, they have become recognized for their innovative approach to olive oil, exploring how different olive cultivars express the unique landscape of their home region.

The Zuccardi family’s Varietal Olive Oil project began with Miguel’s determination to develop Mendoza’s potential as an olive-growing region. Their first harvest took place in 2004. Today, the family cultivates 198 acres of olive trees organically in Fray Luis Beltrán, at the foot of the Andes, where a remarkable combination of climate, soils, native flora, and biodiversity creates an ideal environment for sustainable agriculture.

The pronounced temperature swings between day and night help bring out the distinctive qualities of each olive cultivar, particularly Arauco, a local variety that has been grown in the Americas for nearly 500 years. Zuccardi’s Arauco olive oil is a pure expression of both the variety and the place where it is grown.

The story of Familia Zuccardi itself began in 1963, when engineer Alberto Zuccardi developed his own irrigation system to make agriculture possible in Mendoza’s arid landscape. His work led him to discover a passion for winemaking, establishing a family tradition that continues today. Three generations later, the Zuccardis remain committed to exploring and celebrating the extraordinary agricultural character of Mendoza.

WHY WE LOVE IT

The 2025 harvest is everything we love in an expressive olive oil. It is wonderfully aromatic and fresh, with notes of tomato and freshly cut grass. On the palate, it has plenty of fruit, balanced by a lively bitterness and peppery finish.

This is an oil that begs to be used generously. Pour it over grilled meats, especially Argentine steak, whisk it into chimichurri, or use it in Salsa Criolla with fresh tomatoes and peppers. It is equally delicious drizzled over a hearty beef stew or chili, where its fresh character adds a welcome lift.
And there is a reason to feel especially good about reaching for this bottle: the 2025 harvest earned a Gold Medal for Medium Intensity at the New York International Olive Oil Competition.