L’huile d’olive : le trésor d’Ibiza

Rédigé le : 23 Mars 2020
Par : Léa Frémiot

Do you already know Ibiza for its special gastronomy , its cultural heritage or its magnificent coves ? At Villanovo we set off to discover its agriculture and more particularly an expensive resource for the island: olive oil. True economic activity of Ibiza, olive oil has been cultivated there for generations and represents one of the key ingredients of its delicious Mediterranean cuisine . Immediately discover the secrets of this wealth that make up the identity of the island of beauty.

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Vers une évolution de la production

Although it is an ancestral know-how and that the first productions date back to -450 BC, the production of olive oil on the island has exploded in recent years. In fact, we see many cooperatives and production units flourish, from small producers to large ones. The Oli d'Eivissa brand was created to attest the quality of the oil and to recognize that it was produced on the island. Today 9 producers of Ibizaare recognized by this brand, whose oils must pass various controls to ensure their purity. The methods of producing olive oil vary widely among different farmers. Indeed, whether in terms of the production process, whether they are more or less ecological or in terms of the varieties used. The main varieties used to date are those of arbequina, picual but also empeltre. We are however witnessing the introduction of new varieties which allow us to diversify olive oil production and bring a touch of novelty to existing oils, particularly in terms of flavor.

Several olive growers say that 2019 has been a particularly successful year for them, in quantity but also in quality. The protected designation of origin that has recently emerged allows producers who wish to benefit from it to affix a new label mentioning Ibiza on their bottles. This year is therefore a turning point in the production of olive oil, but also an additional and worldwide recognition of the know-how of the island's producers. The prestige of the oil produced is also due to the high quality of the soils of Ibiza, with a limestone tendency but also to the ideal climatewhich has sunny days throughout the year and mild temperatures even in winter. You will not be surprised to come across olive trees everywhere on the island as their culture is favored. At Villanovo we therefore advise you to take advantage of your stay in Ibiza to visit olive grower estates and stock up on souvenirs . Joan Benet, renowned producer invites you to discover the secrets of its production through a visit (by appointment and in small groups) to the olive groves. You will also be offered a tasting to discover the best of its oils, which are marketed under the name Oli from Ibiza and served in the best restaurants.of the island.

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