Before settling in New Zealand, Fabrizio went back to his motherland and spent a month travelling around Italy visiting producers with his sister, Serena. Fabrizio was searching for not only the best produce, but he also wanted to dig out those people who have dedicated their lives to making what Italy is known for: quality, artisanal products that are steeped in history and respect.

On this incredible trip, Fabrizio saw Italy in all its diversity. He got up close with the daily procedures and hard work that have honed Italian produce for generation upon generation. He touched the raw materials used to make products full of passion, love, knowledge and tradition.

“I feel proud to be an Italian. We have a long history, with every generation adding new knowledge, yet maintaining so much respect for their elders and for traditions. It’s pleasant to see how technology facilitates the process – but more than that, I loved touching the wheat ready for harvest. This is something instinctive – deeply human. The producers I came to know and respect focus on quality and ethics rather than mass production and profit.” - Fabrizio Napolitano