Il Palazzone Extra Virgin Olive Oil is made exclusively with olives grown on the estate at 1,476-1,640 feet above sea level. When ready, the olives are picked by hand. Picking happens early in order to prevent the fully ripe olives from falling to the ground and being bruised in the process. Gathering the olives from the ground would allow for a more rapid harvest but would interfere with the quality of the final product. A comb-like tool is used to sweep the olives off each branch and the olives are placed directly into a reed basket worn around the waist of each picker. Harvesting before the olives fully mature — generally mid- or end of November — results in a smaller yield but higher quality oil. This process ensures the deep green color and magnificent artichoke bouquet of the oil.