A Love Story, Bottled.
In Kanina, Vlorë, a 1400s love story took root. Today we bottle that devotion — protecting the health of those who enjoy it and the livelihoods of those who harvest it.
Rooted in Albanian Heritage
In Albania, the olive tree has always symbolized love, unity, and endurance — a living bond between people and the land.
The name Donika honors this spirit. In the 15th century, Donika Arianiti, a noblewoman from the south, married Gjergj Kastrioti Skënderbeu, the great leader from the north. Their union brought together two halves of Albania, inspiring peace and resistance against the Ottoman Empire.
According to legend, at their wedding in Kanina Castle, guests from the north tasted olive oil for the first time — a southern treasure that became a symbol of harmony and shared heritage.
That day, the couple made an unwritten vow: every newlywed pair should plant ten olive trees in honor of their marriage, so love would always give life. This tradition spread across southern Albania, filling the hills of Vlorë with new growth.
From those plantings emerged the Kalinjot olive variety, now native to the region and still thriving today. The same ancient trees continue to bear fruit — the roots of Albania's olive culture and the legacy behind Donika Olive Oil.
Our Journey Through Time
From ancient Albanian roots to modern American tables, discover the milestones that shaped Donika.
Origins in Kanina
A 1400s love story in Kanina inspires a legacy; 10 million Kalinjots takes root.
A VLORA CHILDHOOD
Growing up in Albania meant food and culture as identity.
A New Chapter
A move to the U.S discovers a gap in authentic olive oil.
Vision Solidifies
From college thesis to mission — the seed of Donika takes shape.
First Tastings
Community events and early placements spread Donikas story and flavor
Launch
The launch of Donikas first official harvest sells out in Year 1
Expanding Impact
New Connections allow for Strengthening farmer livelihoods and health-first craft.
Our Impact
Premium quality and empowering communities aren’t separate goals—they’re the same mission. Every bottle represents our commitment to excellence and our partnership with Albanian farmers.
Quality Through Partnership
Donika Olive Oil is more than a brand — it is a partnership with Albanian farmers and producers who have cared for ancient olive trees for generations. Born from the passion of these farmers, Donika celebrates the excellence of Albania’s native olives and seeks to elevate the nation’s cultural and economic presence on the global stage. Our olives are handpicked at peak ripeness and pressed using time-honored methods combined with modern precision, preserving both flavor and the oil’s extraordinary health benefits. Certified EU and USDA Organic, Donika represents the pinnacle of purity and craftsmanship in Albanian olive oil.
Everything we create is 100% Albanian — from the farmers and millers to the packaging, design, and vision — ensuring each step reflects our homeland’s pride and talent. By sourcing locally and paying livable wages, we sustain rural families, protect the land, and deliver freshness straight from the grove to your table.
Our Impact
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Local Partnership 100%
Albanian sourcing and services -
Fair Wages
Above-average compensation for farmers -
Certifications
Working toward Fair Trade & B-Corp -
Cultural Bridge
First major Albanian brand in the US
Meet Bianti Danaj
Founder
Inspired by life between two countries, Bianti saw how food connects culture and belonging.
A former national-level swimmer and recent business grad, he believes nourishment fuels health and performance.
Rooted in Albania’s Kalinjot olive — a symbol of resilience, heritage, and identity — Donika became a mission to carry this story to the world.
Our People
The passionate individuals who bring Donika’s mission to life, from Albanian groves to American tables.
Bianti Danaj
Founder
Grace Kelley
Co‑Founder
Bruno Musa
Head Producer
Mendim Baçaj
Agronomist
Ana‑Maria Gajtani
Outreach Coordinator
Sajda Danaj
Brand Face
Ready to Experience Donika?
Join us in celebrating Albanian heritage while nourishing your health with the world’s finest high-phenolic olive oil.
