What makes your olive oil award-winning?
Our range of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) has been recognized for its exceptional quality, taste, and production standards. It undergoes meticulous harvesting, cold-pressing, and strict quality control processes, resulting in an outstanding product that has garnered the highest industry accolades from organisations like Flos Olei and IOC. While all of our EVOOs have been recognised as "best in class" if you want to go straight to the top our most highly rated EVOOs are Finca la Torre’s Hojiblanca and Nobleza del Sur’s Centenarium are a great place to start.
What is EVOO?
EVOO means Extra Virgin Olive Oil and this means that it is the highest grade of olive oil and MUST have these key characteristics:
Method of Extraction EVOO is obtained solely from the mechanical pressing of olives, without the use of heat or chemicals. This cold-pressing method helps preserve the natural flavors and nutrients of the olives.
Purity An authentic EVOO must meet strict standards of purity. It is made exclusively from the first pressing of the olives, ensuring the highest quality oil. Subsequent pressings produce lower quality oils.
Acidity Level The acidity level must be less than 0.8% to be classified as "extra virgin." This low acidity is indicative of high-quality olives and proper processing.
Flavor and Aroma EVOO is prized for its rich flavor and aroma and zero defects. A properly made EVOO should taste fruity and green.
No Refining Unlike refined olive oil, which undergoes processing and filtering to remove impurities and flaws, EVOO is unrefined and retains all of its natural goodness, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Are all your olive oils Extra Virgin?
YES, all of our EVOOs are certified extra virgin.
Where do you source your EVOOs from?
We source our EVOOS from select groves in Spain where 44% of the world’s olive oil comes from and a concentration of best in class producers can be found. Spain has long produced the highest quality EVOO using sustainable practices, ensuring environmental responsibility and optimal flavor.
What are the health benefits of EVOO?
Our award-winning EVOOs are rich in antioxidants, monounsaturated fats, and vitamins, promoting heart health, lowering cholesterol levels, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. They also possesses anti-inflammatory properties and supports overall well-being. For a full breakdown on the incredible health benefits of EVOO read this blogpost where I really get into the detail.
What is "early harvest" EVOO and what are the benefits?
"Early harvest” EVOOs are made from olives collected slightly underripe. These oils taste greener and fresher and, crucially, have higher amounts of polyphenols the antioxidents which make EVOO such a superfood. All of our premium EVOOs are early harvest.
Can EVOO be used for cooking?
Absolutely! One of the myths about EVOO is that it can't be used for cooking. The smoke point of EVOO is 410°F (210°C) and this is perfect for sautéing, roasting, grilling, and frying. One thing I would say is that you do not need to use a premium EVOO for cooking. I always recommend a slightly later harvest EVOO for cooking as some of the flavour will be lost and you are better using your favourite premium EVOO for "finishing" dishes ie that final drizzle before you serve.
Can I use EVOO for dipping and drizzling?
Absolutely! Our olive oil is perfect for dipping crusty bread, drizzling over salads, or finishing off dishes to add a burst of flavor and bring out the best in all your seasonal ingredients and foods.
How can I learn more about EVOO?
There are tasting notes and food pairing suggestions for every oil on our website and if you’d like to receive a guide to tasting olive oil like a pro sign up to our newsletter.
A subscription to our Tasting Club is a fabulous way to learn more about EVOO varietals, tasting and you will also receive exclusive recipes with every bottle you receive.
I hope this answers your questions. If you have any more do please drop me a line.
All the best,
Sarah x