Description
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Ravece olive variety, which must make up at least 60% of the groves; the Ogliarola, Marinese, Olivella, Ruveia and Vigna della Corte varieties no more than 40%, individually or mixed, and at times the Leccino and Frantoio varieties, no more than than 10%.
Production Area
The production area of Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil is within the territory of numerous municipal areas in the Province of Avellino, in the Campania region.
Production Method
The olives are harvested either by hand or mechanically, by December 31th, on the condition that the drupes do not remain on the ground. Nets and other gathering methods are permitted, but olives that have fallen naturally either on the ground or in permanent nets may not be collected. Milling must take place within 48 hours of harvesting. Once extracted, the oil must be stored in stainless steel containers or in terracotta tanks with food enamelling. An organic method can be used.
Appearance and Flavour
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil ranges from straw yellow to green in colour, varying in intensity, with clear aromatic hints of tomato and grass, and a fruity, bitter and piquant flavour.
History
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil boasts ancient origins. In fact, the olive groves in this area date back to Roman times. Since the XVI century, Ravece, the main olive variety used to produce the oil, has been cited in various different documents. The cultivation of the Ravece olive variety was further developed during the XIX century, as documented by Nicola Flammia in 1893, in his book Storia della Città di Ariano.GastronomYExtra virgin olive oil is highly perishable and must be kept in a cool place away from direct light, heat sources and products that release strong odours. It should be consumed within four to six months of pressing to fully appreciate its qualities. Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil complements many meat and vegetable-based dishes: grilled meats, soups and minestrone, as well as boiled and grilled vegetables, salads and bruschetta.
Gastronomy
The product is marketed as Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil. It is sold in dark glass bottles, enamelled ceramic, terracotta or tin plate recipients of no more than 5 litres, sealed and labelled, as well as in 10 ml single-dose sachets made of suitable materials.
Marketing
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil boasts unusual characteristics, given to the microclimate, soil and cultivation techniques that have been passed down in the production area for centuries. The Ravece olive variety is ideal for growing in this area thanks to its resistance to frost and snow.
