What Makes The Best Olive Oil So Good?

Olive oil. It's a staple in kitchens around the world, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, and a delight for the senses. But have you ever wondered what truly separates a good olive oil from a truly great one? It's a journey from branch to bottle, filled with tradition, craftsmanship, and a deep respect for nature.

The Art of the Harvest

The magic begins in the olive groves. The timing of the harvest is crucial. Olives picked too early can yield oil that's intensely bitter, while those picked too late might produce a milder, less complex flavour profile. The ideal window often involves a mix of green and slightly ripened olives, balancing pungency with a hint of fruitiness.

Traditional harvesting methods are often the most revered. Hand-picking, though labor-intensive, ensures that the olives are handled gently, minimising bruising and damage that could negatively impact the oil's quality. This meticulous approach is a hallmark of truly exceptional olive oils.

The Pressing: Where Liquid Gold is Born

Once harvested, speed is of the essence. Olives must be pressed as quickly as possible, ideally within a few hours, to prevent oxidation and maintain their freshness. This is where the pressing process comes in.

Modern mills use advanced machinery, but the principle remains the same: the olives are crushed into a paste, which is then malaxed (slowly stirred) to help the oil droplets coalesce. Finally, the oil is separated from the olive solids and water, often through centrifugation. The key is to keep the temperature low throughout this process – "cold-pressed" olive oil preserves more of the delicate aromas, flavours, and beneficial nutrients.

Decoding the Labels: Extra Virgin vs. The Rest

The world of olive oil can be a little confusing with all the different labels. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO): This is the gold standard. EVOO is essentially pure, unrefined olive juice. It's extracted solely by mechanical means, without the use of solvents or excessive heat. To qualify as EVOO, it must have a free acidity of no more than 0.8 grams per 100 grams and undergo rigorous chemical and sensory testing. It boasts superior flavour, aroma, and nutritional properties. Think vibrant, fruity, peppery notes.

• Virgin Olive Oil: Similar to EVOO, it's also unrefined and mechanically extracted, but with a slightly higher acidity level (up to 2 grams per 100 grams) and a less perfect sensory profile. It's still a good quality oil, but not quite as pristine as EVOO.

• Refined Olive Oil: This oil has been chemically treated to remove defects in flavour and aroma, often from lower quality olives. This process also strips away much of the oil's beneficial compounds. It's typically colourless, odourless, and flavourless.

• Olive Oil (sometimes labeled "Pure Olive Oil"): This is a blend of refined olive oil and virgin or extra virgin olive oil. It's a versatile oil for cooking but lacks the complex flavours and health benefits of EVOO.

Carluccio's L'oro di Calabria: A Taste of Excellence

Among the many exquisite olive oils available, Carluccio's own Extra Virgin Olive Oil, L'oro di Calabria, stands out as a testament to what makes a truly great olive oil. Meaning "The Gold of Calabria," this oil embodies the rich culinary heritage of southern Italy.

Sourced from the sun-drenched groves of Calabria, L'oro di Calabria is a celebration of the region's native Carolea olives. These olives are carefully harvested and cold-pressed within hours, ensuring that every drop retains its natural vibrancy.

The result is an EVOO with a beautifully balanced flavour profile. You'll discover delightful notes of fresh grass, artichoke, and a pleasant peppery finish that lingers on the palate. It's an oil that truly elevates any dish, from a simple drizzle over bruschetta to enriching a robust pasta sauce. L'oro di Calabria isn't just an ingredient; it's the liquid embodiment of Calabrian passion and tradition.

Next time you reach for a bottle of olive oil, take a moment to appreciate the journey it's taken. From the ancient groves to your table, a great olive oil is a testament to nature's bounty and human dedication, bringing a touch of liquid gold to every meal.