QUEEN CREEK, Ariz. — What started as a small family farm almost two decades ago, has become a tourist destination, welcoming more than half a million visitors in 2023. The owner of the Queen Creek Olive Mill shares how he went from working with cars, to producing award-winning extra virgin olive oil.
Olive oil has been part of Perry Rea's everyday routine for years.
"I love to eat. I love to cook. I grew up in an Italian family using olive olive everyday," Rea said. "I tell people I went from motor oil to olive oil."
Before he had olive oil running through his veins, Rea worked in the car industry. After a successful career in Detriot, he decided to start a new chapter. He moved with his wife and five kids to Queen Creek, buying some land from the owners of Schnepf farm.
His wife Brenda suggested they start growing olives on their property. Rea said the climate in Arizona is similar to the Mediterranean and the Middle East, where olives grow well.
The family started small, producing a little bit of olive oil. Over the years, they made lots of mistakes. But by learning from each mistake, their product got better. Nearly two decades later, the Rea's are enjoying the fruits of their labor.
"We're making so much oil we've never made before," Rea said. "We're going to end up making 35,000 liters of olive oil this year."
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As the only working olive mill in Arizona, Rea wanted to share his passion with others. The business branched out, starting "Olive Oil 101" educational classes and tours, so people can learn about the behind the scenes. They opened a restaurant and gift shop on their property to sell their goods. The Rea's even invested in the beauty business, infusing everyday essentials with olive oil.
"My wife Brenda started out with just body oil, and then she branched into things like body butter, soaps, etc.," Rea said.
What began as a family venture has become so much more. The Queen Creek Olive Mill becoming a destination where locals and tourists can enjoy Arizona's liquid gold. 650,000 people visited the property this year.
Rea said their success is all possible thanks to the community who embraced them.
"The town of Queen Creek just welcomed us with open arms," Rea said.
As the Queen Creek Olive MIll continues producing award-winning olive oil, the goal is to keep people happy.
"I think its really important when somebody comes to see me, that they leave with a full belly. It's Italian," Rea said.
If you would like to find more information or visit the Queen Creek Olive Mill, click here.
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