Sicilian Olive Oil – Have You Tried it?

January 19, 2010

Sicily has long been known for producing superb olive oil. A lot of people would be surprised to learn the ancient Greeks were responsible for the initial olive oil production in Sicily. In the 5th century B.C. Greek colonists planted olive trees and because of the perfect Mediterranean climate, the olive trees thrived. Those initial trees eventually spawned an olive tree business in Sicily that accounts for 10% of all Italian oil production.

The varied Sicilian farmers warrant credit for making their region so popular. The aforementioned climate has a lot to do with their success as well. The ideal Mediterranean climate and lush volcanic soil coupled with thousands of acres of Sicilian soil devoted to olive groves make the island an olive oil paradise. The groves are at an elevation that makes them less susceptible to sweltering summer temperatures. This allows perfect conditions for the production of these light and elegant oils. The oils that come out of Sicily are diverse.

A lot of the oils are delicate and sweet yet others are bold and peppery as their northern Italian counterparts. All Sicilian oils are aromatic and appealing, it is said that the Greeks would often choose Sicilian oil to their own. The olives in Sicily are harvested earlier then other regions, usually in October. Sicilian trees are usually shorter and have thicker foliage then other olive trees. The shorter trees make it easier to pick the fragile fruit by hand.

Next time you are at your local grocery store or specialty store, check the labels and give a Sicilian olive oil a try. You will not be disappointed.