Description
The Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Picual, Verdala, Royal and Manzanillo de Jaén varieties of olives.
Production Area
The production area of Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil is located in Sierra de Segura in the northeast of the province of Jaén, in the Autonomous Community of Andalusia.
Production Method
The oil is produced either mechanically or by hand using methods which conserve the organoleptic qualities of the fruit. Harvest begins in November and continues until January or February, but the quality of the olive is at its best in the first two months of this period. The olives are carefully transported to the mill on the same day they are harvested. It is recommended that they are not washed but only have the leaves removed. The olives are crushed and the resulting paste is centrifuged to separate the oil, it is then stored in stainless steel containers in cool conditions to mature.
Appearance and Flavour
Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil has a well-balanced, fruity flavour with a hint of bitterness. It is green in colour with tinges of golden yellow depending on the time of the harvest.
History
The olive has provided the local economy in the production area of Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil for a long time; references to olive trees, olives and olive oil are present in many works of art. This oil bears the Designation of Origin since 1979, when it was provisionally appointed by the Regulating Council.
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 20°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. Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil can be used as a condiment or in a vast number of recipes. Many traditional and modern cakes, pastries and ice creams have this oil as an ingredient. As it is fairly strong flavoured oil, it is recommended for full flavoured foods such as pulses and meats.
Marketing
The product is sold as Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil in glass bottles or tins. 25 and 50 cl glass bottles are used for the e-commerce of this oil.
Distinctive Features
A large part of the Sierra de Segura PDO extra virgin olive oil production area is located in the heart of a Natural Park. The unpolluted nature of the surroundings contributes to the high qualities of this extra virgin olive oil.
