What is extra virgin olive oil and how to recognise a good one

What extra virgin olive oil means

Extra virgin olive oil (AOVE in Spanish) is the highest quality category among virgin olive oils. It is obtained directly from olives by mechanical means only, without refining.

What to check when buying it

To choose a good oil, look at the legal category, the origin, the olive variety, the harvest year when stated and how it has been stored. The container should also protect the oil from light and heat.

Arbequina: a Mediterranean variety

Arbequina is a variety closely tied to Catalonia and to growing areas such as Les Garrigues. Its profile tends to appeal to anyone looking for an aromatic, balanced oil.

Extra virgin olive oil from Les Garrigues

In our Arbequina selection you can see the sizes available, including the 5-litre Arbequina olive oil and the 2-litre size.

Frequently asked questions

Are extra virgin olive oil and olive oil the same thing?

Not exactly. Extra virgin refers to a specific category of virgin olive oil with set quality requirements.

How should it be stored?

Keep it tightly closed, away from light and away from sources of heat.

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To learn more about origin and buying oil, read our guide to buying 5-litre olive oil and discover Arbequina from Les Garrigues and where it comes from.