I doubt that you have ever tried a truly great extra virgen olive oil, unless you grew up in an olive growing region or maybe if you have access to high end restaurant purveyors. This extra virgen, available only through www.latienda.com, is one of these truly great oils. It comes from a small hacienda run by the Vano family in the south of Spain, right outside of Jaen (the real olive capital of the world–no, Italy doesn’t come close). I really love both varieties of this–the picual is more robust and powerful while the arbequina tastes more fruity. Both have an intense, green taste and really great body–these oils are harvested early, which contributes to their greenness and full flavor. Early pressing produces less but better tasting olive oil. I can’t think of any sad supermaret brand that comes even close to these oils. Even most gourmet store extra virgens, which often come with a much higher price tag, cannot compare. This oil pours beautifully on the plate for dipping with bread and is amazing when used to finish hot soup.
One taste and you will know. Order a bottle or both varietals together at www.latienda.com
