Frequently Asked Questions |
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Commonly Asked Questions about Nell'Oliveto.
Is Nell'Oliveto's
Oil extra virgin?
As the name indicates, it is extra virgin...and better.
The denomination "Extra Virgin" is given to
any olive oil that has an acidity level of less than
1.0%. Nell'Oliveto has received the D.O.P. oilive oil's
highest classification for quality, low acidity and
well balanced flavor.
Is it 1st pressing?
Cold pressed?
Tuscans only press their olives once, there are no more
pressings. Moreover, oil must be pressed keeping a constant
temperature that is neither too hot nor cold to ensure
that the subtlest flavor and chemical structures remain
intact.
Is it organic? Isn't
all Olive Oil Organic?
No. To qualify as organic not only must the production
process be done without chemicals or pesticides but
also, the land surrounding the trees must be pure of
chemicals fertilizers, sewage treatment, etc.
The worst threat to olive
trees is the olive fly. This pest lays it eggs inside
the maturing olive, which eat their way out of the fruit
creating a drastic change in flavor and quality. Organic
farmers cannot use pesticides to treat infestation.
Luckily, our groves are at an altitude where the fly
cannot exist.
How can one tell
a truly good Olive Oil?
Like good wines, beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
There are some things you can look for, however.
1) Color stability...does
it change color over time? A good oil is like a good
wine, it ages and changes consistency, color and body.
Unlike wine, oil does not get better with time, it gets
weaker. If the color does not change over the course
of a few months, most likely stabilizing oils have been
added.
2) The Bottle...oil is
susceptible to light and temperature. Any producer that
delivers Olive Oil in a clear bottle has little respect
for the oil.
3) Herbs!...good oil
is sublime in itself. If you find herbs, chilies, or
other flavoring plants ion the oil, while it may look
beautiful, it generally infers a lesser quality oil.
How Long does it last?
In Tuscany we follow a calendar of use:
First Month - Olio nuovo,
the most prized for its uniquely spicy favor. Great
as is, on bread (bruschetta) with rubbed garlic or on
salad.
First Year - Good for
salads or other raw uses.
Second to Third Year
- Cooking of all kinds. We do not use any other oleo
product unless we are making Chinese food. It is great
for frying, basting, etc.
After three years - keeps
the car and tractor running smoothly and fulfills any
household moisturizing/lubricating need! Olive oil is
never wasted. It is our most precious commodity.
Why does Nell'Oliveto
make a good gift?
Unlike a bottle of wine which will last for a meal,
Extra Virgin Olive Oil adds flavor to everything you
cook for weeks to come.
It's health giving properties
(0% cholesteraol) make it one of the few truly delicious
food gifts that is also good for you.
Our unique bottle design
adds a touch of Tuscan tradition and modern style to
any table.
How will the oil be
shipped?
Nell'Oliveto is only shipped via courier to ensure it
arrives safe. The bottles are packed in thermal boxes
of six bottles.
How can I order some?
To
order, click here
or fax your request to +39 0577
677618.
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