Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is one of the most emblematic products of the Mediterranean diet. However, not all oils on the market are of the same quality.
Learning to recognize a good extra virgin olive oil helps us to better enjoy its flavor and take advantage of its health benefits.
In this article, we explain how to identify quality EVOO.
1. Oil acidity
One of the best-known indicators is acidity.
Acidity measures the amount of free fatty acids present in the oil and reflects the condition of the olive and the care taken during the production process.
For an oil to be extra virgin, its acidity must be below 0.8%.
Higher quality oils usually have much lower values. For example, very low acidity is common in early harvest oils.
Low acidity usually indicates:
- Healthy olives.
- Careful harvesting.
- Rapid milling after harvest.
2. Aroma and flavor
A good extra virgin olive oil is easily recognized by its aromatic profile.
It should present aromas reminiscent of fresh olives and other plant elements.
Some common notes are:
- Freshly cut grass.
- Tomato.
- Almond.
- Green leaves.
In addition, EVOO usually has a slight bitterness and pungency, two positive characteristics related to the presence of natural antioxidant compounds.
3. Harvest date
Olive oil is a natural product that evolves over time.
That is why it is important to pay attention to the harvest or campaign date.
Oils made from freshly harvested olives usually offer:
- Greater aromatic intensity.
- Higher antioxidant content.
- Better stability.
In many quality oils, harvesting is done at the beginning of the campaign, when the olives are still green.
4. Polyphenols
Polyphenols are natural antioxidant compounds present in olives.
These compounds provide:
- Stability to the oil.
- Healthy properties.
- Aromatic intensity.
Oils with a higher polyphenol content usually have a more intense and complex profile.
5. Oil origin
Origin is another key factor.
Oils produced in traditional olive-growing areas, such as Jaén, usually have climatic conditions and agricultural knowledge that favor the production of high-quality oils.
Furthermore, when the producer controls the entire process—from cultivation to processing—it is easier to guarantee product traceability.
Enjoying good extra virgin olive oil
Choosing a good extra virgin olive oil not only improves the flavor of our dishes, but also allows us to enjoy a natural product full of nuances.
At Olvero, we produce organic extra virgin olive oil in Arjonilla, Jaén, following traditional methods and taking care of every stage of the process, from cultivation to packaging.
