The Greek Olive Oil

 Olive oil has long been celebrated for its rich flavor, numerous health benefits, and integral role in Mediterranean cuisine including the Greek one. However, not all olive oils are created equal. The quality of olive oil can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the variety of olives used, the cultivation methods employed, and the production processes implemented. Let's delve into the different varieties of olive oil based on their quality grades, shedding light on what sets them apart and helping you make informed choices when selecting this golden elixir. Extra Virgin Olive Oil Widely regarded as the pinnacle of olive oils, extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality grade available. It is produced solely from mechanically cold-pressed olives without the use of heat or chemicals. EVOO boasts an exceptionally low acidity level (below 0.8%) and exhibits vibrant flavors and aromas. It embodies the essence of freshly harvested olives, often carrying fr...

 Extra virgin olive oil, renowned for its exceptional flavor and numerous health benefits, is a staple in kitchens worldwide. While its rich taste and versatility make it a sought-after culinary ingredient, the process behind its creation is an intricate and time-honored tradition. Join us on a journey through the stages of producing extra virgin olive oil, from the olive groves to your table. The production of extra virgin olive oil begins with the careful harvesting of olives. Generally, this process takes place during the late autumn and early winter months when the olives are at their peak ripeness. Farmers employ various methods, including handpicking and mechanical harvesting, to ensure the quality and integrity of the fruit. After harvesting, the olives are meticulously sorted to remove any damaged or overripe fruits. This selection process helps maintain the desired flavor profile and ensures that only the finest olives are used. Once sorted, the olives undergo a thorough c...

 To achieve exceptional olive oil results, two crucial factors come into play. The first one is selecting the optimal harvesting period for the olives and then ensuring their timely transport to the olive press. Once we identify olives with the ideal level of maturity, characterized by a healthy appearance, good size, and color, we begin the harvesting process. We carefully collect the olives either mechanically or by hand and place them in perforated plastic crates to minimize stress during transportation to our olive mill. Thoroughly cleaning the olives holds significant importance in the oil production process as it creates the ideal conditions for obtaining a pure, high-quality product. Introducing clean olives into the production line also protects the oiling machinery from excessive and unnecessary wear and tear.  The cleaning process naturally involves the removal of leaves, branches, stones, and other foreign objects before the olives move on to the pressing stage. Lea...