Tell us about your current role?

I am joint owner of Sant’ Angelica Extra Virgin Olive Oil with my husband. We own an Olive farm in the Maremma region of Tuscany – a beautiful unspoilt area overlooking the sea. My role in the business is very varied – some of the time it is very hands on especially during harvest time. I spend a lot of my time marketing and promoting our Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil including sourcing and designing our bottles and packaging.

How did you first get into the food/drink industry? 

My husband and I have always been passionate about food and drink and when the opportunity came to buy a derelict house with an abandoned Olive farm in Tuscany we jumped at the chance. My husband had just retired so we had time to concentrate on bringing Sant’ Angelica back to life and producing something special in an area we love.

What is your favourite part about working in the industry?

My favourite part of working in the industry is getting to know so many like-minded food and wine enthusiasts. Working with people who are passionate about producing quality products makes the job very interesting. People in the industry are so supportive of new businesses and are happy to help and give advice.

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We’re meeting up for a drink after work – what are you having?

Bertha’s Revenge Gin with Poachers tonic water.

You can only have one drink for the rest of your life, what’s in your glass? 

It would have to be my favourite local red wine from our area in Tuscany – it is called Monteti and is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc with a singular percentage of Petit Verdot – it portrays the characteristics of our beautiful sunny hills which descend towards the sea. 

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It’s Saturday night, what restaurant are you going to?

When I am in Italy – my favourite restaurant for Saturday night is Il Frantoio. The restaurant is in a beautiful old Olive Mill located in the local village square and specialises in Maremma Fiorentina beef.

When we are in Ireland we will go to our favourite Irish Italian restaurant – Osteria Lucia.

Is there a bucket list food/drink you want to try, or a dream food/drink destination you’d love to visit?

My husband has just planted some vines, and I can’t wait to try the wine in about 4 years when it is ready!

What is the most memorable experience of your career so far?

More emphasis on natural and organic drinks.

 What is one thing you’d like to see more of in the food/drink industry? 

Seeing our first bottle of Olive oil being bottled in the Frantoio and bringing it back to Ireland.

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Are there any particular women you admire in the industry? 

For me Darina Allen is someone I admire in the industry, especially for her longevity in a difficult industry and continued enthusiasm. Also, for her love of promoting good food and making cooking as accessible as possible to everyone.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to start a career in the industry? 

Go with your gut feeling and if you believe in your product others will see your enthusiasm and believe in you too.

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Order Sant’ Angelica directly here. You can connect with Instagram here.