A family story ...

In 2000, two young people in their twenties from Saint-Rémy, brother and sister, Anne and Gilles Brun, decided to open an oil mill in Saint-Rémy de Provence.

The various traditional Alpilles varieties were replanted around the Mill:

Grossane
An olive of French origin, frequently found in Bouches-du-Rhône. It produces an average, even crop. Very fleshy and a good size (very rounded shape) it is mainly used for the production of black olives that are appreciated for their particularly gentle flavour. The Grossane is also used for making olive oil; its yield varies from 10 to 12 %.

Picholine
This variety is mainly found in the Gard region, with 5% also grown in the Alpilles. Highly resistant to cold and drought, it comes into production early and ripens very late. This pointed olive is used for the preparation of green table olives and for making olive oil. Extraction remains difficult and the oil yield is average, between 14 and 18%.

Aglandau
A French variety also known as Blanquette, Béruguette or Verdale de Carpentras. It is self-compatible and generally produces an average crop every other year. It is mainly used for making olive oil. It makes a high-quality oil and keeps very well. Its yield varies from 17 to 21%. It is also used in confectionery.

Salonenque
Of French origin, Salonenque produces a large, consistent crop. It is sensitive to cold and drought. Its pear shape and yellowish colour make it very characteristic. In September, only the large olives are picked for the split olives season, the rest being picked in November/December for oil. Its yield varies between 17 and 21% and it gives a nicely smooth oil.

Verdale des Bouches du Rhône
A French variety from the southern Bouches-du-Rhône, it is very characteristic with its many lenticels. This variety is resistant to the cold.