Spain cultivates many different varieties of olives (hundreds?). The major varieties include Picual, Hojiblanca, Arbequina and Cornicabra. I love them all...
Spain is by far the largest exporter of extra virgin olive oil in the world, producing more than 3x the quantity of Italy, and is responsible for nearly half of the world’s production in total. This prominence is nothing new with olive oil production in the country dating as far back as the second millennium B.C. and we can find plenty of archaeological evidence proving Spain had been supplying the Roman Empire with olive oil.
Although the country has a 4,000 year history of olive oil production, it is in the last 25 years that Spanish olive oil has undergone a true revolution. While in the past the country held a strong reputation for sacrificing quality over quantity, Spanish producers today are making some of the word’s best olive oils, utilizing the country’s abundance of local olive varieties with their broad range of flavor profiles.
I have been personally sampling some of those! Right now, I am going through a bottle of Garcia de la Cruz, yummy. Here is the "marketing" copy for it:
"Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a pinnacle of excellence in Spanish olive oil craftsmanship. Sourced from the sun-drenched groves of Spain and meticulously crafted using traditional methods, this extraordinary olive oil embodies the essence of luxury and sophistication. With its rich golden hue and velvety texture, Garcia de la Cruz Extra Virgin Olive Oil is renowned for its exceptional quality and unparalleled flavor. Perfect for dipping crusty bread or drizzling over fresh salads, its delicate yet robust flavor profile adds a touch of elegance to any dish. Elevate your culinary creations to new heights with this premium olive oil, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.
Indulge in the rich flavors of Spain with Garcia de la Cruz Extra Virgin Olive Oil, a luxurious addition to your southwestern-inspired dishes. Use it to sauté onions, peppers, and garlic for a flavorful base in dishes like fajitas or tacos. Drizzle it over grilled vegetables or meats for a touch of Mediterranean flair that perfectly complements the bold spices of southwestern cuisine. Create a vibrant salad dressing by combining it with lime juice, cilantro, and a hint of honey for a refreshing accompaniment to your favorite Tex-Mex salads. Whether used for cooking, dressing, or dipping, Garcia de la Cruz Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to every southwestern dish."
