Producers of Extra Virgin Olive Oil: The Complete Guide to Quality and Tradition

When it comes to extra virgin olive oil, Italy holds a prominent position on the international stage, thanks to the excellent quality and unique variety of oils produced in different regions of the country. Among these, Puglia stands out as one of the main production areas, with an olive-growing tradition that dates back thousands of years. In this article, we will explore the world of extra virgin olive oil producers, with a particular focus on producers from Puglia, such as the Agricola Pietrasanta from Carovigno (Brindisi). We will discover the characteristics that make extra virgin olive oil unique, the production processes, and how to choose the best oil for culinary and health purposes.

Agricola Pugliese Biologica Pietrasanta is a perfect example of how tradition can be combined with innovation to create products of the highest quality. Our company, located between the hills and the sea of Puglia, has been producing extra virgin olive oil for over 40 years, following organic and sustainable methods. We offer a range of oils that include our Blend, Organic Oil, Monocultivar Picholine, and Monocultivar Ogliarola. Each variety has its own peculiarities, reflecting the richness of the Pugliese territory.

The cultivation of the olive tree has ancient origins, dating back over 6000 years. In Italy, the olive tree was introduced by the Phoenicians and later spread by the Romans. Puglia, thanks to its mild climate and fertile soil, became one of the main producing regions. The traditional methods of extra virgin olive oil production have been passed down from generation to generation. The olives are hand-harvested to preserve the integrity of the fruits. They are then brought to the mill and processed cold to obtain a pure and natural oil.

Varieties of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Produced

Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Our Classic oil is a balanced oil with notes of green apple and fresh almond. It is ideal for enriching salads, fish dishes, and white meats.

Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Produced according to the strictest organic standards, our organic oil is perfect for those seeking a healthy and natural product.

Monocultivar Picholine Extra Virgin Olive Oil: This oil is characterized by an intense fruity flavor, with herbal hints and a bold taste. It is ideal for dressing bruschettas and pasta dishes.

Monocultivar Ogliarola Extra Virgin Olive Oil: With a medium fruitiness and hints of berries and almonds, our Monocultivar Ogliarola is perfect for pairing with vegetable and legume dishes.

The Extra Virgin Olive Oil Production Process

The olive harvest is a crucial moment in the production of extra virgin olive oil. At Agricola Pietrasanta, we hand-pick the olives, choosing only the best fruits. This method, although more labor-intensive, guarantees a product of the highest quality. After harvesting, the olives are brought to the mill within 12 hours. We use cold pressing to preserve all the organoleptic properties of the oil. This process allows us to obtain a pure oil, rich in antioxidants and nutrients. The extra virgin olive oil is then stored in temperature-controlled environments, protected from light and air, to maintain all of its characteristics intact.

How to Choose the Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When choosing an extra virgin olive oil, it is important to consider some quality parameters, such as the acidity, which must be below 0.8%, and the peroxide value, which indicates the degree of oxidation of the oil. A high-quality extra virgin olive oil should have a fruity taste, with well-balanced bitter and spicy notes. The aroma should be fresh and reminiscent of freshly crushed olives.

The Benefits of Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Extra virgin olive oil is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and monounsaturated fatty acids, which contribute to heart health and the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

Extra virgin olive oil is versatile and can be used in many culinary preparations, from salads to fish dishes, from meats to vegetables. It is perfect for both raw dressing and cooking.

Choosing the right extra virgin olive oil is essential to enrich your diet with a healthy and tasty product. At Agricola Pugliese Biologica Pietrasanta, we work every day to offer you the highest quality oils, obtained with sustainable methods and respect for tradition. Visit our website to discover all the varieties of oil we produce and take advantage of our special offers.