Description
Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Leccino, Frantoio, Casaliva, Pendolino and Sbresa olive varieties. The designation must be accompanied by one of the following names: Sebino or Lario. The two areas have different percentages of olive varieties in the groves, as described below.
Production Area
The production area of Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil is within the Lombardy region, limited to a few municipalities in the provinces of Brescia and Bergamo for the Sebino geographical reference, and in the provinces of Como and Lecco for the Lario.
Production Method
The olives must be harvested directly from the tree, either by hand or mechanically, by January 15th of each year. The oil extraction processes must take place within three days of the harvest.
Appearance and Flavour
• Sebino: obtained from the Leccino (at least 40%), Frantoio, Casaliva, Pendolino and Sbresa varieties (up to 60%); it is green-yellow in colour and has a light to mild fruity aroma, and a fruity flavour with a delicate hint of bitterness and slight piquancy. • Lario: obtained from the Leccino, Frantoio and Casaliva varieties (at least 80%); it is greenish yellow in colour and has a light fruity aroma and flavour, with a hint of bitterness and slight piquancy.
History
The history of olive cultivation in the production area of Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil dates back hundreds of years, as demonstrated by documents and ruins of olive mills apparently dating back to pre-Roman times.
Gastronomy
Extra virgin olive oil is highly perishable and must be stored correctly in order to maintain its organoleptic characteristics. It should therefore be kept in a cool, dark place at a temperature between 14 and 18°C, away from heat sources and other foods that release odours. It should be consumed within four to six months of pressing to fully appreciate its qualities. Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil has a light and delicate flavour, which makes it particularly suitable as a condiment for fish dishes and hors d’oeuvres. It is also used as in ingredient in the preparation of cakes and biscuits.
Marketing
The product is marketed as Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil and is accompanied by one of the following place names: Sebino or Lario. It is sold in glass or tin plate recipients of no more than 5 litres. The label must indicate the year of production.
Distinctive Features
Laghi Lombardi PDO extra virgin olive oil is characterised by a maximum acidity that varies between 0.5 and 0.55 g per 100 g of oil, depending on the geographical reference, and a panel test result higher than or equal to 7.