Description
The Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Picual, Lucio and Loaime varieties of olive, together with secondary varieties from the same area.
Production Area
The production area of Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil is located in several municipalities of the Montes de Granada situated in the province of Granada in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia.
Production Method
Harvest begins in the month of December, depending on the ripeness of the olives. The olives are harvested either manually or mechanically. Only olives that have had no contact with the ground are used. They are transported with care on the same day they are harvested. They are cleaned, weighed and washed and then crushed and pressed to facilitate the extraction of the oil. The oil is stored in stainless steel containers until it is bottled which takes place in a light and temperature controlled environment.
Appearance and Flavour
Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil has a fruity aroma of freshly pressed ripe olives; it has a slightly bitter and full-bodied flavour. The intensity varies depending on the degree of ripeness of the olives when harvested. This olive oil is defined aromatic oil with the aroma of fresh olives, freshly cut grass and green tomatoes. The predominant colour is green with hints of gold.
History
The first references to the cultivation of olives in the production area of the Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil, where there are still olive trees from the Arabian era, dates back to the 16th century. Over the course of the last century, the product has gone through a phase of widespread growth also thanks to the increase of olive plantations and significant progress in the cultivations, carried out with the aim of improving the quality of the extra virgin olive oil between 1913 and 1933.
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 e 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. Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil is ideal used as a condiment on salads, with fish and pasta sauces etc. because the oil not only enhances the flavour of the food but also aids digestion. The Frutado Intenso version of Montes de Granada PDO goes very well with full flavoured dishes, it is recommended for pulse based soups or grilled meat. The Frutado Suave version, since it is more delicately flavoured is better suited to delicate dishes such as vegetables and fish.
Marketing
The product is sold as Montes de Granada PDO in two versions: Frutado Intenso and Frutado Suave. It is sold in glass bottles or tins.
Distinctive Features
The particular climatic conditions of the production area, which is 750 to 1300 m above sea level, allow methods of agriculture which respect nature. In fact, given the rigid climate, the incidence of disease in the olive is very low and pesticides are not used, which is a contributing factor to the organoleptic qualities of Montes de Granada PDO extra virgin olive oil.