As the market for premium (extra virgin) olive oil becomes more refined in its choice and general understanding of the nature of the product increases, quality emerges as the single most important production requirement.

But precisely what is quality in oil? As producers do we really know how to both recognize it and design our production methods to favour it?

Quality in premium (extra virgin) olive oil derives from a complex and varied series of influences which begin well before the extraction process and extend to its use as a special condiment to food.

Modern scientific and agricultural study is now able to increasingly identify those complex factors which determine quality and the precise chemical and organoleptic ways in which it is affected.

These begin with the considered selection of a particular olive cultivar, not only for its agronomic performance, but also for the intrinsic chemical/organoleptic nature of the oil it can produce. It then progresses through almost every facet of agricultural management and tree maintenance, such as the method and nature of fertilization, irrigation practice and harvesting. Even pruning can affect the quality of an olive oil.

Producers, processors, merchants and consumers all have a significant role to play in determining or maintaining oil quality. It follows, then, that each needs to know the effect and degree of their influence.

This seminar, limited to 30 people and held over one day, combines the many facets of oil quality into a single presentation, attempting to detail the ways in which each protagonist in the production process can improve the product.

It includes results of the latest European research into the chemical and organoleptic characteristics of premium (extra virgin) olive oil and suggestions to growers to improve the quality of their fruit and oil.

Presented on Powerpoint it includes detailed lecture notes and opportunity for general discussion

Outline

1. Grove location & design.
2. Varietal selection
   Includes cultivar choice and characteristics.
3. Grove design & layout
4. Tree & grove maintenance
   Includes irrigation, fertilization, pruning, ground maintenance and pesticide use.
5. Fruit harvesting
   Includes harvesting time, methods, collection, handling and storage.
6. Fruit processing
   Includes machinery selection and operation.
7. Oil storage
8. Bottling