Description
The Kefalonia PGI is a virgin olive oil obtained from olives of the varieties Koroneiki, Agouromanako and Venezianiki Ladolia.
Production Area
The production area of the Kefalonia PGI is within the administrative boundaries of the Kefalonia prefecture, in the Ionian Islands.
Production Method
The olive gathering takes place when they are ripe and through the use of combs, or, more rarely, through "beating". The olives are processed within three days after picking. Once placed inside plastic baskets or natural bags holding 30 kg or 50 kg, they are taken to the oil mill for pressing. The olive pressing takes place in classic or centrifuging oil mills, at a low temperature that never surpasses 30°C. The fight against the olive fly, its main enemy, is done with attractive substances sprayed from the soil, using biologic methods without any treatment.
Appearance and Flavour
The virgin olive oil Kefalonia PGI has a green colour, high density and a bitter taste, which softens over time, leaving the fruity taste that is characteristic of ripe olives.
History
The history of the virgin olive oil Kefalonia PGI is linked to the local tradition of the olive tree culture, which in Greece has very old roots, as evidenced in historical sources and archaeological finds.
Gastronomy
The virgin olive oil is an easily perishable food that needs correct preservation in order to maintain its organoleptic characteristics intact. It is thus advisable to keep it in a cool place and away from light, at a temperature between 14°C and 18°C, away from heat sources and from products that give off particular smells. It is recommendable to consume it within four to six months after the pressing, to enjoy it in the period of highest expression of its taste. The olive oil Kefalonia PGI is an essential ingredient in the Mediterranean diet.
Marketing
The product is sold as Kefalonia PGI. It is marketed in glass bottles holding 250 ml, 500 ml, 750 ml and 1 l, or in metal containers of 5 l.
Distinctive Features
The virgin olive oil Kefalonia PGI is highly appreciated for its flavour, which is influenced by the sun, the sea breeze, the humidity level, the excellent quality of the soil, a mild climate and the care for the trees following traditional methods.
