When buying olive oil, quality matters. Not all olive oils are created equal, and knowing what to look for can mean the difference between a mediocre product and an exceptional one that delivers both health benefits and incredible flavor. At Alpha Omega Imports, we specialize in premium Greek extra virgin olive oil, and we're here to share our expert tips for choosing the best.
Why Quality Matters in Olive Oil
High-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants, and healthy monounsaturated fats. These compounds provide anti-inflammatory benefits, support heart health, and add complex flavors to your cooking. Poor-quality or adulterated oils lack these benefits and can even taste rancid or bland.
6 Expert Tips for Choosing High-Quality Olive Oil
1. Look for "Extra Virgin" on the Label
"Extra virgin" indicates the oil was extracted mechanically without heat or chemicals and has a free acidity below 0.8%. This is the highest grade of olive oil and the only one that retains the full spectrum of health benefits and flavors.
What Extra Virgin Means:
- First cold-pressing of olives
- No chemical processing or refining
- Acidity level below 0.8%
- No sensory defects
- Superior taste and aroma
Avoid oils labeled simply "olive oil," "light olive oil," or "pure olive oil" as these are refined products that have been chemically processed and lack the health benefits of EVOO.
2. Check the Harvest Date
The fresher the oil, the better. Olive oil is best consumed within 18 months of harvest, and the most flavorful oils are used within the first year.
What to Look For:
- Harvest date clearly displayed on the bottle
- Date within the last 12-18 months
- "Best by" or "use by" dates (though harvest date is more reliable)
At Alpha Omega Imports, all our olive oils display clear harvest dates so you know exactly how fresh your oil is.
3. Choose Dark Glass Bottles or Tins
Light is one of olive oil's biggest enemies. Exposure to light causes oxidation, which degrades the oil's flavor and nutritional value.
Best Packaging Options:
- Dark green or amber glass bottles
- Metal tins (excellent light protection)
- Opaque containers
Avoid:
- Clear glass bottles
- Plastic containers (can leach chemicals)
- Oils displayed in bright store lighting
4. Verify Country or Region of Origin
Authentic producers proudly display their origin. Look for specific information about where the olives were grown and the oil was produced.
Quality Origin Indicators:
- Single country of origin (e.g., "Product of Greece")
- Specific region named (e.g., "Kalamata," "Sparta," "Crete")
- Estate or grove name
- PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) certification
- PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) status
Be wary of labels that say "bottled in" or "packed in" without specifying where the olives were grown. This often indicates blended oils from multiple countries.
5. Look for Quality Certifications
Third-party certifications verify that the oil meets strict quality and authenticity standards.
Important Certifications:
- PDO/DOP: Protected Designation of Origin - guarantees geographic origin and traditional production methods
- PGI: Protected Geographical Indication - verifies regional production
- Organic: Certified organic farming practices
- COOC: California Olive Oil Council (for California oils)
- Awards: International olive oil competition medals
Our Greek olive oils at Alpha Omega Imports carry PDO certification and have won numerous international awards for quality and taste.
6. Trust Your Senses: Smell and Taste
High-quality EVOO should smell fresh with notes of green grass, herbs, or fruit. It should never smell musty, rancid, or like crayons.
Aroma Indicators of Quality:
- Fresh-cut grass
- Green tomato or artichoke
- Fruity notes (apple, banana, or green fruit)
- Herbal scents (basil, mint, or oregano)
Taste Characteristics:
- Fruitiness: Pleasant olive fruit flavor
- Bitterness: Slight bitterness (indicates polyphenols)
- Pungency: Peppery sensation in the throat (sign of high-quality oil)
The peppery kick you feel in your throat is actually a good sign—it indicates high levels of healthy polyphenols and antioxidants.
Warning Signs of Poor Quality:
- Rancid or musty smell
- Greasy or waxy taste
- No aroma at all
- Vinegary or wine-like flavors
- Metallic taste
Additional Quality Indicators
Olive Variety
Premium oils often specify the olive variety used. Greek oils are frequently made from Koroneiki olives, known for their high polyphenol content and robust flavor.
Single-Estate vs. Blended
Single-estate oils come from one producer's groves, offering better traceability and often superior quality. Blended oils may combine olives from multiple sources and countries.
Price Point
Quality EVOO requires careful cultivation, timely harvesting, and proper processing. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Expect to pay more for authentic, high-quality extra virgin olive oil.
How to Store Your Olive Oil at Home
Once you've chosen quality oil, proper storage preserves its freshness:
- Keep sealed tightly when not in use
- Store in a cool, dark place (not near the stove)
- Avoid temperature fluctuations
- Use within 6-12 months of opening
- Never refrigerate (can cause condensation)
- Transfer to smaller bottles as you use it to minimize air exposure
Why Choose Greek Olive Oil from Alpha Omega Imports
Direct from Greek Producers
We import our olive oils directly from trusted Greek estates, ensuring authenticity and freshness. Our relationships with producers span generations.
PDO Certified Quality
All our premium olive oils carry PDO certification, guaranteeing they meet the strictest quality standards and come from designated Greek regions.
Recent Harvest Dates
We ensure all our oils are from recent harvests, clearly labeled so you know exactly when your oil was produced.
Award-Winning Selection
Our Sparta Gourmet Premiere and other Greek EVOOs have won international awards for their exceptional quality and taste.
Proper Packaging
All our oils come in dark glass bottles or protective tins to preserve freshness and prevent light damage.
Expert Guidance
We're passionate about olive oil and happy to help you choose the perfect oil for your needs, whether for cooking, finishing, or gifting.
Experience the Difference of Premium Greek Olive Oil
Now that you know how to choose high-quality olive oil, experience the exceptional taste and health benefits of authentic Greek EVOO. Our carefully curated selection represents the finest olive oils Greece has to offer.
By paying attention to labeling, certifications, and sensory cues, you can select an olive oil that delivers both outstanding health benefits and incredible taste.