How do you taste olive oil?

Fruitiness comes through in both aroma and taste; this quality is determined by the degree of ripeness of the olives. Green olives produce green fruity notes – literally green – like tomato stems, artichokes, grassy flavours. Olives that go to the press when they’re changing colour produce more fruity notes like pineapple and banana. Bitterness is sensed directly on the tongue. The bitterer, the better, as bitterness indicates the presence of polyphenols. Pungency is sensed throughout the mouth and even at the top of the throat, exciting sensations such as spiciness and black pepper.

How do you use olive oil in your cooking?

You can use EVOO either raw or cooked in any dish you can imagine. In Greece we use it exclusively! It is a myth that you should not use olive oil for frying, roasting or even baking. It has a unique aroma and enhances the flavour of any kind of food that you use it with – bread, vegetables, meats, fish, eggs, pasta, ice- cream....the list is endless.

In contrast with other cooking oils EVOO retains its nutritional value when cooked at high temperatures. Why? Because it is rich in monounsaturated fats, which resist oxidation better than other types of fats, and it contains natural antioxidants that help protect it from breaking down during cooking. Also consider that the better quality the oil the higher the smoke-point.

In the first few months the polyphenols are at their highest. These are what give the olive oil its spicy bitterness when consumed fresh and raw. When cooked, a fruitier flavour profile will develop and enhance the dish. Over time the flavour elements of the raw oil (spicy, bitter and fruity) will unite and mellow.

How do you store olive oil for maximum freshness?

Our olive oil is packaged in 5 litre stainless steel containers. This maximises freshness and helps retain its nutritional value. It can be used for at least 18 months after the harvest date, if properly stored. Keep containers sealed and store them in a cool dark place.

Once you open the container we recommend you transfer what you need for everyday use into glass bottles. If keeping oil in the 5 litre container after opening, ensure you seal the lid tightly to avoid oxidation.