Olive oil has a rather long history. It is assumed that it dates back before 4,000 BC during the Late Minoan period in Crete and since then has been used in nearly every household product and cuisine. Spain is the largest producer, followed by Italy and Greece. Now Texas is at the beginning of cultivating olive trees and producing olive oil.
Extra virgin and regular olive oil explained:
EVOO is 100% extra virgin olive oil, made from pure, cold-pressed olives. The bottle’s label identifies that it’s EVOO, and is dark in color.
EVOO is produced through the natural crushing of olives without heat or chemicals. This allows the oil to retain antioxidant properties making it very healthy to consume. Additionally, it’s packed with a broad range of fresh, herbal flavors to enjoy!
Similarly, regular olive oil is produced through the natural crushing of olives, but then refined to remove flaws without solvents. Solvents are a chemical used to extract the oil. No solvents generally means that the oil has been expeller pressed.
Regular olive oil lacks in taste, odor and color than EVOO, but is still a heart healthy monounsaturated fat to consume, like sunflower and canola oil.
Try them in a side-by-side pairing!
Currently in the state of Texas, there are several companies in the Hill Country, like Texas Hill Country Olive Company, Central Texas Olive Ranch, Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard and ours, Turtle Creek Olive Grove that specialize in the growing and production of olives.
As we wait for the maturity of our trees at Turtle Creek Olive Grove, we carry authentic extra virgin olive oil from Umbria, Italy, and educate guests on the healthful, fresh aspects behind EVOO.
You can try ours in a tasting when you visit our winery in historic downtown Kerrville, or order yours online and we’ll ship directly to you!
Follow our blog for more interesting and educational stories like this one!
Send us an email to info@turtlecreekvineyard.com for any questions.
