"I know what I like! "

Each Fall I normally drive through different parts of Italy in search of small family owned mills that produce oils from their own orchards. In this way I ensure that the product they sell is solely within their control. Additionally, I do not like the really high phenol oils from September harvests so I start my search in Italy in mid October. This year I cannot make the trip.

I ordered from Oliottaviani because this batch was advertised to be from their own orchard and was harvested in October. Two important criteria in my search. The last criteria is the smell of the environment near the orchard but I could not be there this year. Looking at a map they are located in an area with favorable winds so I took a chance.

Their oil is very good. It is unfiltered and delicious. It has strong grassy notes with a slightly bitter and peppery finish. It is the darkest green of any oil I have which means I will have to store it in a cool lightless area to avoid oxidation. I do this anyway, so it is not a problem for me.

Over all, I have enjoyed it immensely. So far, I’ve made fresh focaccia with the oil. I made a mortadella sandwich on focaccia garnished with the oil and I grilled chicken, beef steaks and zucchini and finished them all with the oil. It is a very balanced and versatile oil that pairs well with many things. I look forward to visiting their mill in the coming months and adding them to my list of annual purchases. Well done!