What Is EVOO?
Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) is the highest quality and most flavorful grade of olive oil. It is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, without the use of heat, chemicals, or industrial refining. To be classified as extra virgin, the oil must meet strict chemical and sensory standards defined by international regulatory bodies like the International Olive Council (IOC) and USDA.
Key Technical Criteria for EVOO
1. Production Method:
- Mechanical extraction only (no solvents or heat).
- Olives are milled within hours of harvest to avoid fermentation or spoilage.
- Typical process: washing → crushing → malaxation (gentle mixing) → centrifugation → separation → filtration (optional).
2. Free Acidity (Free Oleic Acid):
- Must be ≤ 0.8%.
- Indicates freshness and proper handling. Lower acidity = higher quality.
3. Peroxide Value (PV):
- Must be ≤ 20 milliequivalents of oxygen/kg.
- Measures oxidation at early stages; high PV = rancidity risk.
4. UV Absorption (K232, K270):
- Tests for oxidation and presence of refined oils or defects.
- EVOO must fall within strict UV absorbance limits (e.g., K270 ≤ 0.22).
5. Sensory Evaluation (Organoleptic Test):
- Conducted by a certified tasting panel.
- Must be free of sensory defects (e.g., fusty, musty, rancid).
- Must exhibit positive attributes: fruitiness, bitterness, and pungency.
What Makes EVOO Special?
- Health Benefits: Rich in monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Linked to reduced risk of heart disease, inflammation, and certain cancers.
- Flavor Complexity: Ranges from mild and buttery to robust and peppery. Reflects terroir, varietal, harvest timing, and milling practices.
- Natural & Unrefined: No chemical processing or blending with lower-grade oils.
- Shelf Life & Stability: High polyphenol content improves oxidative stability and freshness when properly stored (cool, dark place).
Why We Focus on EVOO?
Our passion lies in producing honest, traceable, high-phenolic EVOO that reflects the natural character of our trees and land. We believe that true extra virgin olive oil isn’t just a condiment—it’s an expression of place, tradition, and health.
