You may have seen different olive oils in the supermarket, boutique, or farmers market labeled with different types of oil varieties and perhaps where they are produced, but what does that actually mean? Are there different types of olive trees? Do different olives affect the taste and quality of the oil? Which variety is the best?

Are there different types of olive trees?

The answer is YES! In fact there are over 1,000 different types of olive trees that each produce a different type of olive. Some of the most popular types of olive trees for the production of olive oil are found primarily in Spain, Italy, and Greece. The most common varieties of trees include Picual, Arbequina, and Hojiblanca.

Do different olives effect the taste and quality of the oil?

The type of olive used has a vital importance and effect on the taste and quality of the oil. Here we are going to break down a few different types of olives and their different flavor profiles.

1. Arbequina

   Arbequina olives are a Spanish variety, however they are grown in many different places in the world. The fruit start out green and transition to black as they ripen. The ideal picking time for Arbequina olives are when the fruit is partially green and partially black to ensure the highest levels of polyphenols. Arbequina olives have a fruity flavor with notes of artichoke and nuts.

2. Arbosana

   Arbosana olives are a Spanish variety much less common than Arbequina. These olives grow much larger that Arbequina and produce a larger yield. Arbosana olives are most often picked between the months of September through December. Picking these olives too early will lead to a strong green earthy taste however picking too late will effect the oils taste leaving it bland. However when Arbosana olives are picked at the right time this leads to an incredible complex, robust taste with hints of nuttiness with fruity aromas.

3. Moraiolo

   Moraiolo Olives are a popular Italian variety. These olive trees can grow up to 30 feet tall and produce medium size fruit in which ripen to a dark purple color. Moraiolo olives have an intense fruity flavor with a slightly bitter aftertaste.

Which Variety is the Best?

When it comes to different varieties, it is really a personal preference which variety one may like more than the other. This is why Olive Oil Tasting is a popular way to know which variety you like the best. Going Olive Oil Tasting is not only educational, but a great experience for yourself, friends, and family. At Templeton Olive Oil we offer free olive oil tasting in our tasting room and the opportunity to purchase your favorite of our varieties that we grow at our Family Farm in Templeton, California. Please contact us to set up an appointment to taste our Cold Pressed Extra Virgin Olive Oil in both Arbequina and Arbosana varieties.

(805) 704-5090

templetonoliveoil@me.com