As part of the activities envisaged by the Operational Plan in the olive oil and table olive sector, the Italian Association of Olive Oil Mills (AIFO) collaborate with Italy Olive growing to promote a modern, sustainable, and competitive supply chain based on innovation, quality, traceability, and training. This is the context in which the National Mastro d’Oro Competition 2026, which represents one of the most significant actions for the valorization of the figure of the olive oil mill operator and for the diffusion of the culture of quality in the Italian olive oil sector.
The competition, promoted by AIFO and AFP – Association of Olive Oil Millers of Puglia, celebrates the culture of extra virgin olive oil and the mastery of those who, in the mill, transform olives into excellence. It is open to packaged and commercially available Italian extra virgin olive oils, which will be evaluated by the Tasting Committee of the University of Bari, recognized by MASAF, under the direction of panel leader Alfredo MarasciuloThe judgment will be expressed using official methods and anonymized samples, guaranteeing impartiality and technical rigor.
The Golden Master enters in a supply chain vision that aims at continuous improvement, the modernization of the mills and the sustainability of the production processesToday, the mill is increasingly a place of innovation, where technology, responsible management of by-products, and digital traceability become an integral part of quality. For this reason, the competition is not only a recognition, but also an opportunity for growthEach participant will receive a detailed technical assessment and a label compliance check, practical tools for improving production and communication standards.
Among the main objectives are the promotion of certified DOP, IGP and organic oils, an authentic expression of the connection between territory, expertise, and environmental sustainability. The best Italian extra virgin olive oils will be awarded, divided by category—DOP, IGP, organic, single-variety, blend, and regional—in addition to special mentions for products that achieve the minimum threshold of 75/100. Completing the list of winners are: The Special “Mastro d’Oro” Award will be assigned to the miller who, more than others, has distinguished himself for his ability to combine tradition, innovation and constant commitment to the pursuit of quality..
«This competition – he claims Alberto Amoroso, president of AIFO – It represents a meeting point between artisanal experience and scientific research. Behind every award-winning oil are people who have invested in expertise, technology, and respect for nature. This is the future of our supply chain. Along the same lines, AFP President Stefano Carolihe adds: The Mastro d’Oro is a recognition but also a path to growth. Rewarding the best means pushing everyone towards higher standards, because quality is not a finish line, but a collective journey.
Applications for participation must be sent within the 10 January 2026, along with samples of packaged oil. The awards ceremony will be held at the next Evolio Expo in Bari, a national event dedicated to innovation and sustainability in the olive oil supply chain, where Italian olive oil producers will discuss the sector’s new challenges.
For detailed information about the competition, please write to segreteria@associazionefrantoiani.it.
Dining and Cooking