Description
The Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Arbequina and Verdiell varieties of olive.
Production Area
The production area of Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil is located in the area of the same name, Les Garrigues, as well as in a few municipalities in the areas of La Segarra and Meridional in the southern part of the province of Lleida in the Autonomous Community of Catalonia.
Production Method
The olives are harvested directly from the plant by hand. The oil is extracted traditionally and mechanically in such a way as to maintain the flavour, the aroma and the qualities of the olive intact. The entire process is carried out so that the natural properties of the olive remain unaltered.
Appearance and Flavour
The aroma, flavour and colour of Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil depends on the time of the harvest: when it is made early the aroma is fruity, the colour is green and the flavour is almond-scented and spicy; if the harvest is carried out later the oil is more fluid, the colour is yellow and the taste is sweeter.
History
According to tradition, it was King Jaime I who brought the Arbequina variety of olive from the island of Majorca to Catalonia, where the extra virgin olive oil Les Garrigues PDO is produced. A significant increment of olive production was registered at the beginning of the 19th century, when the increase of olive oil prices stimulated the production of oil in the area.
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. Given its fruity flavour, Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil is much more pleasant to the palate if it is used as a condiment and with pasta sauces. This oil is ideal for cooking at high temperatures: it maintains its properties up to a temperature of 290°C and forms an external protective film, so does not enter the food and conserves all the flavours of the dish. The variety of recipes suited to the excellent qualities of this oil is immense. It is excellent as a condiment on salads and cooked vegetables and on meat and fish dishes.
Marketing
The product is sold as Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil in two versions: Fructado (Fruity) or Dulce (Sweet). It comes in plastic containers of 5 l and in 0.25, 0.75 and 2 l bottles.
Distinctive Features
The main variety of olive used is the Arbequina which gives Les Garrigues PDO extra virgin olive oil the aroma of fresh olives and green almonds, with light touches of apple and other green fruits, and a spicy flavour of bitter almond with a sweet aftertaste. The name Arbequina comes from the word Arbeca, a town in the province of Lleida. This is the best-known oil in Catalonia; the olives are small and resistant to cold and drought.
