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Oil from the Flower Riviera
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Description
Classification: Extra virgin DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) Riviera Ligure olive oil
Color: Yellow
Region of production: Ligurian Riviera (province of Imperia)
Total maximum acidity: not above 0.5 gram of oleic acid per 100 grams of oil
Olives used: Taggiasca olives for at least 90%; it may contain up to 10% of other varieties found in the groves
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THE DELECTABLE LIGURIAN GOLD |
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Liguria is a coastal region in North-West Italy, which extends along the Mediterranean Coast from Tuscany to the border of France. At the extreme western point of the Ligurian crescent, along the steep hillsides that drop off into the sea, one encounters the perfect growing conditions for the Taggiasca olive tree. The small, flavorful olives serve as the basis for a fragrant, delicate oil.
Ever since Roman times olive groves have been cultivated here and the production of olive oil has long been a major pillar of the local economy. Down through the centuries the activities associated with oil production continued to expand thanks primarily to the skill and know-how of the Benedictine monks of Taggia. Indeed, they were the ones, thanks to their extensive terracing efforts, who prepared the way for the cultivation of olive trees along the steep, rocky slopes of the Riviera di Ponente. They put up the characteristic loose-laid walls that to this day constitute a hallmark feature of an area blessed by an exceptional climate: mild winters and sunny summers.
The Taggiasca olive is the result of a painstaking selection and grafting process. In order to ensure the quality of the final product, strict regulations demand that the olives be harvested by the 30th of January each year; either by hand-picking or mechanical means. When it comes to processing the olives and extracting the oil, only mechanical and physical processes are allowed. This guarantees that the olives will lose none of their unique qualities. Indeed, it is the special properties inherent to the olive that are transferred directly into the olive oil, making it one of the most highly acclaimed components of the Mediterranean diet. Easy to digest, olive oil is an ideal condiment for people of all ages, thanks to its versatile properties which contribute to a wholesome diet. In particular, the olive oil of the Flower Riviera combines the healthy benefits of nutritional wholesomeness with a fruity sweet flavor, imbued with the intense bouquet of mature olives. The abundant sun accounts for the characteristic golden color of this oil, often featuring green sediment due to the fact that it is not filtered.
It is at its best when used to accompany fresh vegetables or poured directly from the bottle over various dishes. It is especially good with the traditional dishes of Ligurian cuisine, that is, fish that has been baked or simmered in a tomato and caper sauce. It is also great as a compliment to simple but always inviting pasta dishes like Spaghetti with fresh tomatoes, olives and garlic, or Tortiglioni with tomato and basil sauce.
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