Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the highest quality oil obtained from olives. It is produced solely through mechanical processes, without chemical or refining processes, which allows it to preserve all its flavor, aroma, and healthy properties.
In Spain, and especially in Jaén, extra virgin olive oil has been part of the culture and gastronomy for centuries. Its quality and purity make it one of the most valued ingredients of the Mediterranean diet.
How extra virgin olive oil is obtained
EVOO is obtained directly from olives through a simple but very careful process.
The process usually follows these steps:
-
Olive harvesting
Olives are picked from the olive tree at their optimal ripeness. -
Grinding
Olives are crushed to obtain a paste. -
Beating and extraction
The oil is separated from the other components through mechanical processes. -
Decantation or centrifugation
The oil is separated from water and solid residues.
This process ensures that the oil retains all its natural aromas and nutritional properties.
What is the difference between virgin and extra virgin olive oil?
Not all olive oils are of the same quality.
The main differences are:
Extra virgin olive oil
- Maximum acidity of 0.8%.
- No flavor or aroma defects.
- Highest quality.
Virgin olive oil
- Acidity up to 2%.
- May have minor defects.
Refined olive oil
- Obtained through refining processes.
- Loses part of its natural aromas and properties during the process.
Therefore, extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality option for both cooking and raw consumption.
Benefits of extra virgin olive oil
EVOO is one of the most representative foods of the Mediterranean diet.
Its nutritional characteristics include:
- Rich in natural antioxidants.
- High content of oleic acid.
- Contains monounsaturated fats.
- Provides natural compounds such as polyphenols.
- Can be part of a balanced diet.
How to recognize a good extra virgin olive oil
A good EVOO usually has:
- Fresh olive aroma.
- Fruity notes.
- Slight pungency or bitterness.
- A color that can vary between green and golden.
These nuances depend on the olive variety and the harvest time.
Jaén olive oil
The province of Jaén has a long olive-growing tradition and is one of the main olive oil producing areas in the world. Its olive groves produce some of the most highly valued oils by chefs and experts.
The climatic conditions and the know-how of generations of farmers make it possible to obtain oils of great quality and personality.
Discover our extra virgin olive oil
At Olvero, we produce extra virgin olive oil from Jaén, obtained directly from our olives through mechanical processes that respect all its essence.
Discover the characteristics of each of our oils: