Meet Barbagallo: Sicily’s Ancient Grain Pasta Artisans
Family-run artisan pasta makers from Fiumefreddo di Sicilia, Barbagallo 1911 have been milling and crafting pasta for more than a century. Their traditional low-temperature methods preserve the flavour, aroma and nutrition of ancient Sicilian grains while protecting the island’s biodiversity. The result is pasta of exceptional texture and depth, certified organic and entirely made in Sicily.
A family tradition
When brothers Angelo and Giacomo Barbagallo built a small water‑powered mill in Fiumefreddo di Sicilia in 1911, they were guided by two natural gifts: the mineral‑rich lava soils of Mount Etna and its pure spring water. More than a century later the family is remains in Fiumefreddo, still obsessing over wheat and water – but today the fourth, all‑female generation – Agata, Filly and Giulia – steers the business, blending tradition with quiet innovation.
A true field-to-fork sanctuary. Unlike mass producers who use ready-milled semolina, Barbagallo controls every step of their craft – from stone-grinding to gentle bronze extrusion. Their 24-hour process preserves both aroma and nutrients that industrial methods sacrifice.
Ancient grains, gentler gluten. The granary holds only indigenous Sicilian grani antichi – Timilia, Russello, Cappelli and Perciasacchi. Naturally gentler on the body yet richer in micronutrients than modern high-yield wheat, these heritage grains are slowly dried at low temperatures to preserve their integrity. The result? Pasta with a profound, nutty character that your body recognises – offering genuine nourishment and easier digestion for those disappointed by industrial alternatives. If you are interested in finding out all about Sicilian ancient grains you can read this detailed piece of research.
Long before the EU introduced organic certification, Angelo Barbagallo (son of the founder) converted the mill and pastificio to certified organic production, securing the Nature & Progrès seal in 1989. Today the roof is covered with solar panels, hot air from dryers is recycled and every bag of pasta is sealed in compostable film or recyclable paper. Sustainability here is no strap‑line; it is a family habit.
Why Sapori Direct Chose Barbagallo
Sapori Direct represents Barbagallo 1911 exclusively in the UK. Their pasta combines artisan heritage with organic certification and modern consistency, making it a perfect fit for specialist retailers seeking provenance, quality and a compelling brand story.
Extraordinary flavour – Sicily’s volcanic terroir, freshly-milled grains, and traditional bronze dies create pasta with a depth of character that needs nothing more than a splash of extra-virgin olive oil to transport you straight to Sicily.
Naturally nourishing – Naturally nourishing – every grain is milled whole, preserving the precious wheat germ and bran that industrial processing discards, offering your body nutrition it instinctively recognises and embraces.
A force for good – Every purchase supports a family devoted to organic farming since 1989, ancient grain preservation, plastic-free packaging, and renewable energy – helping sustain traditions, communities, and Sicily’s agricultural heritage.
Looking Forward
Our UK launch range includes Paccheri, Caserecce and Lumaconi from the Ancient Grains line, together with the Pasta & More wellness range such as Orzo with Turmeric and Black Pepper.
Distribution is handled through CBF Fulfilment in Hertfordshire, offering flexible case or pallet quantities for trade and retail partners.