How to buy extra virgin olive oil

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How to Buy Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Step into the aromatic world of extra virgin olive oil, where the golden elixir tantalizes taste buds and enhances culinary creations. In this blog, we embark on a journey to unravel the secrets of selecting the perfect bottle of liquid gold.

From the sun-kissed groves of Greece to the picturesque landscapes of Italy, learn the art of distinguishing premium extra virgin olive oil quality. But, of course, not all extra virgin olive oil brands are the same – join us as we navigate the labyrinth of olive varieties, extraction methods, and sensory profiles, empowering you with the knowledge to become a discerning olive oil connoisseur.

Prepare to unlock the flavors and complexities that elevate every dish to culinary excellence, and learn how to buy extra virgin olive oil today.

Learn how to buy the right Extra Virgin Olive Oil:

Decoding Extra Virgin OLIVE OIL: Your Ultimate Buying Guide!

What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is a high-quality and unrefined oil obtained from pressing olives, renowned for its exceptional taste and numerous health benefits. It is the purest derivative of olive oil, extracted using mechanical processes without chemicals or excessive heat through the first cold pressing of olives. This ensures its purity and retains its natural flavors and nutrients. In contrast, other forms of olive oil undergo further processing and refining.

Everyone appreciates olive oil for its low acidity and rich flavor, and for its fruity notes and distinctive aroma. This golden liquid is rich in monounsaturated fats, antioxidants and vitamins, promoting heart health, reducing inflammation and aiding in digestion. Its versatility makes it a staple ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, adding depth and complexity to various dishes.

Does Color Matter?

The color of extra virgin olive oil ranges from a vibrant green to a golden yellow hue. While many people associate a deep green color with high-quality olive oil, it is important to note that the color alone does not determine the oil’s quality or taste.

Instead, factors such as the variety of olives used influence the color of the extra virgin olive oil, their ripeness and the moment of harvest. For example, Novello is the oil is freshly pressed, which means brand new. This fresh squeezed extra virgin olive is exceptionally dark in color. Unfortunately, finding novello extra virgin olive oil in a supermarket is very difficult due mainly to its very limited shelf-life.

The taste and aroma of extra virgin olive oil are more crucial indicators of its quality. Depending on the olives and the production process, the flavor profile can range from mild and buttery to robust and peppery. Therefore, it is recommended to rely on sensory evaluation, including smell and taste, to assess the quality and freshness of extra virgin olive oil.

Understanding Expiration Dates

The expiration date of extra virgin olive oil is essential when purchasing and consuming it. While the duration of its freshness may vary slightly depending on factors such as storage conditions and the specific brand, extra virgin olive oil generally has a shelf life of approximately one year from the time of production.

When reading the label, it is crucial to check both the expiration date and the production date. Ideally, top-quality extra virgin olive oil should have a clearly stated production date, allowing you to gauge its freshness accurately. However, some brands may only provide an expiration date, making determining the oil’s age and potential quality challenging.

It is advisable to choose extra virgin olive oil with a production date as close as possible to the time of purchase. This ensures that you receive a fresh and high-quality product. Always be cautious of oils with excessively long expiration dates, as they may have been produced significantly earlier and could have lost some of their desirable qualities over time.
By paying attention to both the expiration date and the production date, you can make more informed decisions about the freshness and quality of the extra virgin olive oil you consume.

The Importance of Bottling

Choosing the right bottle type for your olive oil is important for preserving its quality and freshness. Opting for extra virgin olive oil in a dark bottle offers several advantages. Dark colors help protect the oil from light exposure, which can lead to oxidation and degradation of the oil’s flavor and nutritional properties. This is especially crucial during transportation, whether it’s a long journey overseas or a shorter distance.

While some brands may use dark plastic bottles, choosing glass or tin bottles is generally recommended. Plastic can be more prone to leaching chemicals into the oil, potentially affecting its quality. Conversely, tin bottles provide excellent protection against light and are a preferred choice for storing extra virgin olive oil.

Taste Testing Fan Favorite Extra Virgin Olive Oil Brands

While some brands of extra virgin olive oil are more popular than others, this is not always due to taste. For example, some buyers may opt for a more affordable extra virgin olive oil, yet the taste is often sacrificed. Below, we’ll explore some of the most well-known olive oil brands and review them for taste and quality.

Bertolli

The Bertolli extra virgin olive oil failed to impress with its lack of freshness and bland flavor. The fact that it is packed in Italy from imported ingredients raises concerns about the quality and consistency of the olives used.

Despite claiming to be the number one olive oil brand, the taste test revealed a subpar experience devoid of robust or fruity notes. The low price reflects its mediocre quality. Overall, this disappointing encounter with Bertolli’s extra virgin olive oil makes it unlikely to find a place in my kitchen again.

Puglia

Puglia extra virgin olive oil proves its worth with its premium quality and distinct flavor. Produced in Puglia, Italy’s renowned olive oil region, it embodies centuries of expertise and tradition.

The label proudly states that it is made from 100% Italian olives, with the origin of the olives protected. From the moment it is opened, the aroma captivates with its fruity and fresh notes. Upon tasting, it delivers a delightful and invigorating experience, showcasing the essence of Puglia.

This artisanal gem starkly contrasts commercial brands, leaving a lasting impression. If you come across Puglia extra virgin olive oil, it is undoubtedly worth indulging in, while other options may not live up to the same standard.

Monini

Monini extra virgin olive oil, though a commercial brand, delivers a recognizable taste of extra virgin olive oil. The label states it is 100% Italian and cold-pressed, indicating a positive production method. However, the lack of information about when it was made might raise questions about the quality and freshness of the olives used.

While it performs adequately, it falls short compared to the exceptional experience offered by Puglia’s extra virgin olive oil. Monini serves its purpose as a convenient option in many supermarkets and you might find it best to use as a cooking oil rather than something for topping bread, final dishes, salads etc mainly because it cannot match the superior quality of artisanal counterparts.

Cobram Estate

Cobram Estate extra virgin olive oil, a popular Australian brand, offers visually appealing packaging with a convenient pour spout. However, concerns arise regarding prioritizing packaging over the quality of the oil itself. While the label indicates a good harvest date, the aroma is lacking, and the taste is best described as blend and water-like. Although it can serve its purpose and save money, opting for a slightly pricier option like Monini may offer a superior experience.

Frantoi Cutrera

Frantoi Cutrera extra virgin olive oil, hailing from Sicily, boasts a long-standing history in olive oil production since 1906. While the label indicates a robust flavor and cold extraction, the concern arises with the bottle’s emphasis on aesthetics rather than the quality of the oil inside.

The aroma is subtle, and the taste falls into the category of bland, resembling the Cobram Estate. Despite its popularity and availability, it fails to meet the expectations set by its appearance. Overall, it is considered an entry-level option, with other brands like Monini being preferred.

Colavita

Colavita extra virgin olive oil, widely available and popular globally, proves to be a reliable choice. The label certifies its authenticity as a premium Italian product with cold production methods. Although lacking information about olive origin and production date, the oil exhibits a pleasant aroma and a fresh, robust, and slightly spicy taste. Despite its higher price compared to other commercial brands, Colavita delivers a top-quality experience, making it a worthwhile investment.

Joseph

Joseph extra virgin olive oil from Primo Estate in McLaren Vale, South Australia, absolutely lives up to its premium price tag of $60. The label provides transparency with the production year, guaranteeing freshness until early 2024. The aroma and taste are remarkable, showcasing the region’s ideal Mediterranean climate.

This oil is perfect for dressing and deserves a place in top-notch restaurants. It cannot be faulted. The only thing to keep in mind is the drop is beyond precious! Keep a more convenient option for cooking and use this to top dishes, vegetables, salads etc as you will really savor the flavor when it is drizzled on.

De Cecco

De Cecco extra virgin olive oil, despite its reputation as a renowned pasta brand, falls short of expectations unfortunately. While labeled as “fruity” and “lively,” it uses olives from the European Union instead of its home region, Abruzzo. The blend lacks distinct flavors, leaving a bland impression. Although it serves its purpose adequately, it fails to impress, especially after experiencing superior options. This entry-level oil reflects its price range accurately.

Dante

Dante extra virgin olive oil, commonly found in Italian grocery stores, disappoints with its lack of transparency and flavor. Lacking an expiration date and containing olives from multiple origins, it falls victim to the “olive oil mafia,” raising concerns about its authenticity and quality.

Certified Organic

Certified organic extra virgin olive oil from Spain, labeled as suitable for vegans, falls short in taste and quality. Despite its organic certification, it gives off a cheap impression and lacks appeal, discouraging further exploration.

Cadel Monte

Cadel Monte extra virgin olive oil, packed in Italy and made with 100% Italian olives, offers excellent value for money. The tin packaging ensures freshness and cost-effectiveness. With a distinct spicy kick, it stands out among commercial brands, delivering a delightful taste experience at an affordable price point.

Overall Recommendations

Based on the reviews, there are several recommendations to consider. For those seeking a good commercial brand at an affordable price, Monini stands out as a reliable choice. It offers quality and value.

If you’re willing to indulge and spoil yourself, Joseph’s extra virgin olive oil provides an exceptional experience, though it comes at a higher price point. Additionally, the Puglia-based olive oil offers unique flavors that transport you to the region.

If you prefer buying in bulk, Cadel Monte is an excellent option, while Colavita’s three-liter tin provides convenience and quantity.

You should choose according to your preferences and desired experience and while many would say this would be subjective based on taste, you should always keep in mind quality and authenticity.

Learn How to Buy Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Choosing the right extra virgin olive oil requires careful consideration. The reviews provided various options, highlighting the importance of tasting and assessing the oil before committing to a larger quantity. You should always consider factors such as production date, expiration date and packaging, ensuring that the oil tastes like olives, possesses fruity or robust flavors and retains freshness. It’s essential to distinguish between olive oil and extra virgin olive oil, as the latter represents the purest form.

While this guide aims to help in the decision-making process, many other brands are undoubtedly worth exploring. Share your preferred choices and recommendations to continue the exploration of this beloved and versatile product. Stay healthy, enjoy the benefits of extra virgin olive oil, and make it a trusted staple in your pantry.

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