As pointed out on The Spruce Eats, Greece has very deep ties to olive oil production. The country is the world’s third-largest olive oil producer, an impressive feat given its relatively small size and population. Along with that quantity comes a high level of quality. If you want to taste that quality for yourself, give the following Greek olive oils a try.
Fyllikon
Fyllikon is an extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) produced in limited batches from the first harvest of each season. Because the olives are not yet ripe when they are harvested, this EVOO boasts a particularly high amount of antioxidants and polyphenols, which are the components from which olive oil derives many of its health benefits. It has won several awards, including a gold medal at the 2019 Argentinian Olivinus International Competition. This is a versatile olive oil that shines when used as a dip or dressing, and it also has a lot to offer when it comes to vegetables, salads, and legumes.
Tassos
Coming from Crete, Tassos EVOO recently received praise from Trip Savvy’s Detraci Regula. This EVOO is useful for a variety of culinary applications, including baking, cooking, and serving as a dip.
Armonia
If you’re looking for a mellow, smooth EVOO, consider giving Armonia a shot. Its olives are a combination of ripe and semi-ripe, and they are picked by hand. It thrives when used for steamed vegetables, soup, baking, and roasting. In 2019, this EVOO was recognized at the Olympia Health & Nutrition Awards for its high quality.
Gaea Fresh
Gaea Fresh EVOO made a prominent appearance on The Strategist’s article assessing some of the top olive oils in the world. The article, written by Nikhita Venugopal and Liza Corsillo, points out that Gaea Fresh is pressed very shortly after harvest, and its label tells consumers its harvest date. Venugopal and Corsillo also advise that this Gaea Fresh is well suited for cooking because of its price point, and it can also be used as a finishing oil.
Gemstone
Voted Best Flavored Olive Oil in 2019, Gemstone is one of the more unique EVOOs appearing on this list. That’s because it is made up of three varieties of olives combined with basil, lime, and ginger. Its unique taste helped propel it to a gold medal at the 2019 EVOO International Olive Oil Contest. In particular, dishes involving fish, green vegetables, and salads benefit from the use of this EVOO. It is produced in very small batches, so if you see it for sale, don’t hesitate to snatch some up.
Theros
For bulk purchases, Venugopal and Corsillo recommend Theros EVOO. They cite one chef who purchases dozens of gallons of Theros at a time. It is produced by a Greek duo made up of a father and son.
Majestic
Like Gemstone, Majestic EVOO has a one-of-a-kind flavor profile. And as is the case with Gemstone, this EVOO is made up of three olive varieties. For more flavor, it is infused with tarragon and lemongrass. This EVOO is made in limited production runs. Another trait Majestic shares with Gemstone is that it shines when used with green vegetables, fish, and salads. In 2018, the EVOO World Ranking rated it as the best flavored olive oil in the world.
Agourelaio
Agourelaio is an EVOO option that is made from unripe olives. It features a flavor that is both bitter and fruity, and it is well suited for a variety of cooking uses. For example, Greece Is writer Calliope Patera recommends using this EVOO on grilled meat, in salads, and to add a flavor boost to pasta. It also pairs very well with white cheese and grilled seafood, and it received an award at the 2019 New York International Olive Oil Competition.
Oleoastron
Oleoastran is an olive oil notable for its high content of omega-3 fatty acids and its flavor, which stands out because the oil’s olives are blended with crushed walnuts, bay leaves, rosemary, purslane, fennel, and crushed walnuts. Among other successes, it was recognized in the 2018 EVOO International Olive Oil Competition.
SkyOrganics
Produced by a small operation in Greece, SkyOrganics EVOO has been highlighted by Fatherly writer Lexi Dwyer as a high-quality option. As the name suggests, this EVOO is made with organic production methods. However, Dwyer warns that its ultra-light flavor might put some consumers off.
Syllektikon
Made entirely of ingredients from Greece’s countryside, Syllektikon is another EVOO that makes this list thanks to its interesting combination of flavors. Tannins and thyme oil enrich the taste of this EVOO, as do its blend of fresh oranges, lemons, thyme, and unripe olives. Made in limited production runs, it received a high rating of three gold stars at the 2019 Great Taste Awards. Give this EVOO a shot the next time you’re making a salad, steaming vegetables, or grilling fish.
