When faced with an array of olive oil options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. With a multitude of terms out there, how do you know which bottle is truly worth your investment? Understanding olive oil labels is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions and ensuring you get the quality and flavor you desire. Today, we are decoding the language of olive oil labels and highlighting what to look for.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

Extra virgin olive oil is the highest grade of olive oil, extracted from olives using only mechanical means, without the use of heat or chemicals. Look for the term "extra virgin" prominently displayed on the label. This indicates that the oil has met strict standards of quality, including low acidity and superior taste.

Single Origin

Pay attention to the origin of the olive oil, and look for olive oils that are single-origin olive oils. This means that all of the oil in the bottle came from the same place. This is important because olive oils that are not single origin can be mixed with olive oils from different areas which alters the taste of the oil and can reduce the quality of the oil, especially if older oils are added to the mix. 

Harvest Date

Freshness matters when it comes to olive oil, as it can significantly impact flavor and aroma. Look for the harvest date on the label, which indicates when the olives were picked and pressed. Fresher oils tend to have brighter flavors and higher levels of antioxidants. Ideally, you want to find an early-harvest extra-virgin olive oil with a harvest date within the past 2 years. 

Early Harvest

Seek out olive oils that are early harvest, preferably in the month of October. Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, early harvest olive oils offer enhanced health benefits, providing protection against inflammation and oxidative stress. These olive oils also provide enhanced flavors. 

Packaging

Opt for olive oils packaged in dark glass bottles or tin containers, as these help protect the oil from light and oxidation, preserving its quality and freshness.

With a basic understanding of key terms and indicators, you can confidently select olive oils that meet your preferences and standards. Whether you're looking for a robust and peppery oil for drizzling over salads or a delicate and fruity oil for finishing dishes, paying attention to the details on the label will ensure you bring home a bottle of liquid gold worthy of your culinary creations! Grab a bottle (or two!) of our October harvest, single-origin, extra-virgin olive oil and taste the difference! Questions? Please reach out and we are happy to guide you!