The 10 Best Store Olive Oil of 2025, According to Experts

A few brands are known for consistently offering 100% pure extra virgin olive oil that meets international standards for authenticity and quality. Some widely respected names include:

• Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Costco’s private label)

• California Olive Ranch (USA-produced, often certified by the California Olive Oil Council)

• Lucini Italia (produced in Italy, often single-origin and cold-pressed)

• Colavita (an established Italian brand with strict quality controls)

To ensure the oil is 100% pure, look for certifications like:

• COOC (California Olive Oil Council)

• EU DOP/IGP (Protected Designation of Origin)

• USDA Organic

• IOC (International Olive Council)

These labels help verify that the oil is unadulterated and meets strict chemical and sensory benchmarks.

Which quality of olive oil is best?

The best quality olive oil is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). It is obtained from the first cold pressing of fresh olives and has the highest standard in terms of flavor, aroma, and nutritional profile. It contains:

• No chemical additives

• Less than 0.8% free acidity

• Full flavor with natural antioxidants and polyphenols

Within EVOO, single-origin, early-harvest oils tend to be more robust and nutrient-dense. These are often packaged in dark glass bottles to preserve freshness.

How to know if olive oil is good quality?

Here’s how to evaluate olive oil quality:

• Check the label: Look for terms like “extra virgin,” “cold-pressed,” and certifications (COOC, DOP, USDA Organic).

• Harvest or best-by date: Freshness matters—good oils should be consumed within 18–24 months of harvest.

• Packaging: High-quality oils come in dark glass or tin containers to protect from light exposure.

• Taste and smell: Good EVOO should taste grassy, peppery, or fruity—never flat, greasy, or rancid.

• Cloudiness is not a defect: Some unfiltered oils may appear cloudy but are still high quality if used within a few months.

Which Costco olive oil is best?

Among Costco’s offerings, the Kirkland Signature Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Toscano or Spanish varieties) consistently ranks as the best. Here’s why:

• Certified organic and first cold-pressed

• Often carries a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) seal depending on the origin

• Packed in dark bottles to protect against oxidation

• Tested by independent labs to meet international EVOO standards

The Toscano PGI version, in particular, is highly regarded for its bold, peppery flavor and authenticity, sourced directly from Italy.