Description
The Aceite de Terra Alta PDO is an extra virgin olive oil made from the Empeltre variety of Olea europea L. olive plus the following varieties: Arbequina, Morruda and Farga. Only oils made from olives from at least five-year old trees may carry the PDO denomination.
Production Area
The production area of Aceite de Terra Alta PDO is mainly located in Terra Alta and in a few other municipalities in the Ribera d'Ebre region in the south-west of the Autonomous Community of Catalonia.
Production Method
The olives are harvested directly from the tree, by means of beating or mechanical shaking. They are then cleaned and washed and mechanically or manually pressed in such a way as not to alter the qualities of the oil but maintain its characteristic flavour and aroma. This must all take place within 48 hours of the harvest to maintain the quality. The oil will then be tested and graded, bottled and packed.
Appearance and Flavour
Aceite de Terra Alta PDO is yellow in colour with tinges varying from pale yellow to antique gold. It is clear and transparent. Its unique flavour has hints of almond and hazelnut. The initial taste is fruity and the aftertaste is sweeter.
History
The cultivation of Aceite de Terra Alta PDO was introduced by the Arabs. The name of the most used variety of olive, the Empeltre, comes from the Catalan word, empelt, which means grafted; from this, it can be assumed that this variety of olive had been grafted onto older olive trees.
Gastronomy
Extra virgin olive oil is easily degradable and must be stored correctly to maintain its organoleptic qualities. It should therefore be kept in a cool, dark place at a temperature between 14 and 18°C, away from sources of heat and away from other foods which produce odours. It should be used within four to six months of pressing to enjoy its flavour at its best. The Aceite de Terra Alta PDO can be used as a condiment or in the preparation of an immense variety of dishes. Many dishes will benefit from the addition of this olive oil. It is excellent on cooked vegetables and meat and fish dishes. It is recommended for frying as it has a sweet and delicate flavour and would not mask the flavour of the food.
Marketing
The product is sold as Aceite de Terra Alta PDO. It is sold in containers of no more than 5 l.
Distinctive Features
The distinctive features of the Aceite de Terra Alta PDO comes principally from the specific qualities of the production area which averages about 400 metres above sea level and is surrounded by three mountain ranges creating a special microclimate and the winds bring sufficient humidity to protect the trees from parasites.
