The Best Tasting Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Test & Review

Source: Amazon

Our pick: Entimio Collection - Tuscany Extra Virgin

The Entimio Collection Extra Virgin Olive Oil Set offers a compelling blend of quality, authenticity, and versatility. Produced from early harvest Italian olives, this award-winning set stands out for its high antioxidant content, low acidity, and rich flavor profile. The cold extraction process and rigorous lab testing ensure a premium product that caters to both culinary enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers. The packaging and variety make it a thoughtful gift option, while the oils themselves deliver consistent performance across a wide range of dishes.

Key Advantages

• High polyphenol content with potent antioxidant properties

• Award-winning, USDA Certified Organic quality

• Versatile trio suitable for diverse cooking and flavor needs

• Low acidity and high smoke point for stability during cooking

Notable Drawback

• Premium price point compared to standard extra virgin olive oils

Overall, the Entimio Collection delivers exceptional value for those seeking a premium, health-focused olive oil experience. Its rich flavor complexity and verified quality make it a top choice for both everyday use and special culinary occasions.

Also great: Taste of Italy, Extra Virgin Olive Oil

The BASSO 1904 Extra Virgin Olive Oil Gift Set offers a curated tasting journey through five distinct Italian olive oil varieties. Each 100 ml bottle showcases unique regional characteristics, providing a broad spectrum of flavors from herbaceous and vegetal to bitter, spicy, and sweet almond notes. Produced from first cold-pressed olives, this set reflects artisanal craftsmanship and regional authenticity. It is well-suited for olive oil enthusiasts seeking to explore diverse flavor profiles and elevate their culinary experience, whether for dipping, finishing, or cooking.

Key Advantages

• Diverse selection of five authentic Italian olive oil varieties

• First cold-pressed oils with distinct regional flavor profiles

• Balanced combination of bitter, spicy, and sweet tasting notes

• Compact, elegant gift packaging ideal for tastings and gifting

Notable Drawback

• Small bottle size limits quantity for regular cooking use

The BASSO 1904 Olive Oil Gift Set is a sophisticated offering for those wanting to explore the nuanced flavors of Italy’s top olive oil regions. It excels as a tasting collection and gift, though the smaller bottles may be less practical for everyday cooking needs. Overall, it provides excellent quality and variety for connoisseurs and gift recipients alike.

Also great: Zahara Extra Virgin Olive Oil from Italy

Zahara Extra Virgin Olive Oil stands as a premium representation of Sicilian olive oil craftsmanship. Produced in Chiaramonte Gulfi, one of Sicily’s most renowned olive-growing regions, this early harvest oil combines tradition and modern quality standards. With polyphenol levels averaging 400 mg/kg and exceptionally low acidity under 0.2%, Zahara offers a rich antioxidant profile alongside a balanced, full-bodied flavor. Its distinctive taste features vibrant notes of tomato, Mediterranean herbs, and subtle peppery undertones, making it a versatile choice for a variety of culinary uses.

Key Advantages

• Consistently awarded top Italian olive oil recognition (Gambero Rosso “3 leaves”)

• Rich in polyphenols with low acidity for health benefits and flavor stability

• Artisanally produced from the unique Tonda Iblea olive variety

• Elegant packaging designed for gifting and presentation

Notable Drawback

• Limited availability due to small-scale, artisanal production

Zahara EVOO exemplifies premium Sicilian olive oil, blending tradition, quality, and distinct regional flavor. Its high antioxidant content and nuanced taste make it suitable for both everyday culinary use and as a distinguished gift. The limited production enhances its exclusivity, appealing to connoisseurs and food enthusiasts who value authenticity and heritage.

Yes, you can definitely taste extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), and tasting it properly reveals a wide range of flavors and aromas. Unlike refined oils, EVOO is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, which preserve the natural compounds responsible for its distinctive taste. When tasting EVOO, you may notice fruity, bitter, and peppery notes, depending on the olive variety, harvest time, and processing method. The bitterness and spiciness come from antioxidants called polyphenols, which also provide health benefits. Tasting EVOO is similar to wine tasting—it requires attention to the oil’s texture, aroma, and aftertaste.

How to Make Extra Virgin Olive Oil Taste Good?

The flavor of extra virgin olive oil can be enhanced by pairing it with the right foods and using proper serving techniques. Fresh EVOO tastes best when served at room temperature or slightly chilled, which preserves its delicate flavors. Combining EVOO with simple dishes such as fresh bread, ripe tomatoes, salads, or grilled vegetables allows the oil’s natural aromas and tastes to shine without overpowering other ingredients. Additionally, using EVOO as a finishing oil rather than cooking it at very high heat helps retain its flavor. Avoid mixing EVOO with strong spices or acidic ingredients, as they can mask or alter the oil’s subtle notes.

What Is a Tasting Olive Oil?

A tasting olive oil is a high-quality extra virgin olive oil specifically produced for sampling and evaluation purposes. These oils are often harvested early in the season and are bottled fresh to preserve their flavor complexity and high polyphenol content. Tasting olive oils allow consumers to explore various flavor profiles, ranging from grassy and fruity to bitter and peppery. These oils are usually unfiltered or minimally processed to maintain their original characteristics. Olive oil tastings help buyers identify their preferred styles and appreciate the nuances between different olive varieties, regions, and production methods.

How to Get Rid of Extra Virgin Olive Oil Taste?

If you find the taste of extra virgin olive oil too strong or bitter for your preference, there are a few ways to mellow its flavor. One approach is to blend EVOO with a milder oil such as light olive oil or a neutral vegetable oil, which softens the intensity without losing the benefits. Cooking EVOO at moderate heat can reduce its sharpness, but avoid overheating to prevent degradation. Using EVOO in recipes with ingredients that balance bitterness—such as garlic, lemon, herbs, or honey—can also neutralize strong flavors. Finally, selecting a different EVOO variety with a milder profile or lower polyphenol content may better suit your taste preferences.