Olive Harvest: Techniques and Period for Extra Virgin Olive Oil
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Olive Harvest: Techniques and Ideal Period for Quality Oil
Harvesting olives is essential to producing quality extra virgin olive oil , a symbol of Puglia's agricultural tradition . It requires experience and attention to detail, using the right techniques to ensure that every drop of oil contains the authentic flavors of Puglia. Discover when to harvest olives, the best techniques and how to treat them to obtain the best possible extra virgin olive oil.
When are olives harvested for extra virgin olive oil?
The ideal time to harvest olives to make extra virgin olive oil varies slightly depending on the variety of olives and the weather conditions. In Italy, the perfect time is between October and December , when the olives are ripe to produce an oil rich in flavor and nutrition.
An early harvest (October-November) produces an oil with a strong flavor, with bitter and spicy notes and a high content of polyphenols. A late harvest, on the other hand, offers a sweeter and more delicate oil. The time of harvest is essential to define the flavor profile of extra virgin olive oil .
Olive Harvesting Techniques for Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
There are different harvesting techniques, all aimed at preserving the quality of the olives. Let's see the main ones:
Manual harvesting
This traditional technique allows to select only the best olives , avoiding the damaged ones. The olives are picked by hand or with small tools such as combs, falling on nets placed under the trees. It is a technique that guarantees an extra virgin olive oil of the highest quality .
Mechanized harvesting
In large companies, mechanized harvesting is often used. With special machinery, the branches are gently shaken, causing the olives to fall without damaging them, thus maintaining the high quality of the oil.
Use of umbrellas and nets
Umbrellas and nets facilitate the harvest by preventing the olives from touching the ground. This preserves the quality of the harvested olives and prepares them for the production of high quality extra virgin olive oil .
Freshly picked olives: treatments for a quality extra virgin olive oil
To produce an excellent quality extra virgin olive oil , it is essential to treat the olives with care immediately after harvesting. Here are some tips:
- Rapid transport to the mill : The olives must be processed within 24-48 hours of harvesting to avoid unwanted fermentations.
- Use of aerated boxes : To avoid damage, olives should be transported in perforated boxes that allow air to circulate.
- Storage at controlled temperature : Store the olives in cool, shaded areas until pressing to preserve their properties.
FAQs about olive harvesting and extra virgin olive oil
What is the olive harvest for extra virgin olive oil called?
We speak of "brucatura" for manual harvesting and "abbacchiatura" for mechanized harvesting.
How are olives treated to obtain a high quality extra virgin olive oil?
It is essential to quickly bring the olives to the mill and store them in a way that avoids damage and fermentation. This way you get an extra virgin olive oil rich in aromas and benefits.
What is the best time to produce high quality extra virgin olive oil?
Between October and December, depending on the variety and weather conditions. Early harvesting offers a more intense flavor and a greater quantity of polyphenols.
Why choose an early harvest extra virgin olive oil?
Early harvest extra virgin olive oils are rich in polyphenols , with antioxidant properties. These oils have a robust taste, with bitter and spicy notes, ideal for those looking for a healthy and tasty extra virgin olive oil .
Conclusion
The olive harvest is a crucial phase to obtain an extra virgin olive oil that reflects the quality of our land. Whether manual or mechanized, we guarantee a genuine product, perfect for every dish. Choosing a quality extra virgin olive oil means choosing tradition and passion.