Fil Bucchino, a Florence-born, Toronto-bred, international extra virgin olive oil expert, has dedicated over twenty years to advocating its vital role in culinary excellence and environmental sustainability.
In a mission marked by passion and purpose, Fil founded Abandoned Grove, which produces limited extra virgin olive oil from rescued olive groves. Today, thanks to this endeavor, over 5,000 olive trees thrive.
Fil's expertise and passion for extra virgin olive oil have not only been confined to the groves and mills. He has extended his influence to the wider public as the host and co-producer of the critically acclaimed documentary, "Obsessed with Olive Oil."
His role as an educator and speaker is further exemplified through master classes and collaborations with esteemed institutions, including Yale University, International Embassies, Chianti Classico, Celebrity Chefs, and Chambers of Commerce. His insights into the world of olive oil have been showcased in global publications, at numerous prestigious events, and as a sought-after judge in olive oil competitions across four continents.
In 2023, The Italian Association of Olive Oil Restaurants (AIRO) awarded him 'Olive Oil Personality of the Year' for his influential contributions to the industry. His commitment to promoting authenticity and uniqueness in the gastronomic world also earned him the prestigious 'Pentola D'Oro Buonissimo Award' from the Italian Chamber of Commerce of Ontario.
Fil Bucchino is the only Canadian recognized in the Italian Directory of Virgin and Extra Virgin Olive Oil Experts. He is a member of ANAPOO and is among a select group of four North Americans listed in the ONAOO International Register. In 2017, this historic Ligurian institution nominated him to represent its first international chapter outside of Italy.
His academic background in BioMedical Sciences and his vibrant past as a professional musician bring a unique view to his commitment to olive oil.
“Extra Virgin Olive oil is the soundtrack to a well-lived life.”
Abandoned Grove
Abandoned Grove rescues, regenerates, and sustains olive groves from abandonment. Through our devotion to excellence, we craft an incomparable extra virgin olive oil and rekindle the profound connections between ourselves, our food, our communities, and our planet.
Each harvest from our groves symbolizes a cycle of land rejuvenation, propelling our movement toward No Grove Abandoned.
It was founded in Toronto, Canada, and Florence, Italy.
Obsessed with Olive Oil
In 2019, Fil co-produced and starred in a feature documentary appropriately titled, "Obsessed with Olive Oil.” The world’s first documentary about premium extra virgin olive oil and the people's passion behind it.
Background
Fil has followed his heart across a lifetime of exploring the globe, trusting his gut and taking cues from some unlikely places: a tour van crossing North America playing from punk rock venues to arena stages, making records and writing with the likes of Rob Cavallo and Dave Bassett; to receiving an Honors degree in Biomedical Sciences; making a documentary about his olive oil obsession and as the founder of Abandoned Grove, where he produces premium extra virgin oil from rejuvenated groves, raising awareness of extra virgin olive oil while supporting the community and environment.