The Guide To Extra Virgin Olive Oil In South Africa

22/10/2025

The Dotoli family of have been involved with producing Extra Virgin Olive Oil for generations in the best Italian tradition on their estates on the slopes of the Vesuvio Volcano in Naples, Italy. In 2008 Antonio, (third generation Dotoli), took over the business, gaining invaluable experience by visiting olive estates across the globe and learning the best techniques and methods. His experience and the assistance of a professional Italian agronomist and master oil maker, combines the best of both worlds on this South African farm. The secret of Vesuvio is the passion, pride and expertise spanning generations of oil makers ensuring only the finest award winning Extra Virgin Olive Oil reaches the tables of their consumers.

To learn more about Vesuvio, visit our website (link in bio).

15/10/2025

13/10/2025

The 2025 SA Olive Awards took place recently in Wellington, honouring the country’s top Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) producers, shining a spotlight on the exceptional quality, passion, and innovation that continue to drive this fast-growing industry.

The Gold Award winners will be anticipating who will be in the ABSA TOP 10, to be announced at a prestigious luncheon at The Cathedral Cellar, KWV, in Paarl on Wed 15th Oct. Stay tuned!

SA Olive Industry Association, Absa South Africa,

07/10/2025

Throughout the classical wine-producing regions of the world, there is a natural association between the olive grove and the vineyard. At , this celebrated relationship continues. Visitors are invited to a unique olive oil tasting and learning experience and a glimpse into how their award winning Extra Virgin Olive Oils are produced.

To learn more about Tokara, visit our website (link in bio).

23/09/2025

.paisible – which means Peaceful Land – is located at the gateway to the Franschhoek Valley with awe-inspiring views of the Simonsberg mountains. The land there is a source of energy and revitalisation where a sense of abundance and peace envelops you.

They sustainably farm 5 different Italian varieties: Favolosa, Frantoio, Leccino, Coratina and Delicata. They hand-harvest and cold-press to preserve the natural antioxidants, oleic and linoleic acids, which contribute to your health and longevity.

Olive varietals each have their own unique flavour and by combining these flavours we have crafted three styles to enhance all your favourite recipes.

Visit our tranquil retreat where we have recently opened a world-class medical aesthetic and rejuvenation spa. Wine tastings by appointment on Sundays & Mondays.

To learn more about Terre Paisible, visit our website (link in bio).

15/09/2025

Riverbend Farm is a second-generation boutique family olive estate, started by Trevor and Kathleen Brodrick with the first olives pressed in 2005. The Olive Mill is conveniently positioned in the middle of the groves, ready to press the olives within 24 hours of hand-picking at optimal ripeness. The farm has been further developed by Allison and Francis who are passionate about making quality products and keen to accommodate smaller farms in the “Italian co-operative tradition” of producing oil for others too. Visitors are welcome to stay in the self- catering cottages on the banks of the river, in the olive grove or at the base of the majestic Rooiberg mountains.

To learn more about Riverbend Farm, visit our website (link in bio).

08/09/2025

.lami hosted a special olive oil tasting at the beautiful in Stellenbosch recently. The Guide to EVOOSA was a welcome part of her presentation.

26/08/2025

's Extra Virgin Olive Oil is an award winning blend of cultivars (FS17, Frantoio, Leccino and Coratina) grown, handpicked, pressed and bottled on the private family-owned estate in the Scherpenheuwel Valley outside Worcester.

Nick Wilkinson, owner/producer is a chartered accountant by profession, but studied olive oil production under Giorgio Mori (Italy) and at U.C. Davis (USA). With his attention to detail, he has been producing award winning oils since 2010, garnering recognition across the globe with top local and international awards including awards from New York, Japan, UAE, Italy and Amsterdam, year after year.

As one of SA’s top producers, they are proud to share their consistently delicious oils in personalized on-tap decanters, ensuring freshness until the last drop. The decanter designs may change from harvest to harvest, but that same great taste never fails to please! Rio Largo adopts biological farming methods for sustainable agriculture by “putting back more than we take out”, together with overall concern for protecting the environment for future generations.

To learn more about Rio Largo, visit our website (link in bio).

20/08/2025

13/08/2025

Baked Carrots with Local Extra Virgin Olive Oil

When carrots are baked with local extra virgin olive oil, something simple becomes exceptional. The oil’s richness draws out the carrots’ natural sweetness, while a hint of fruitiness or pepper from the olive oil adds depth.

Sourcing from local growers means every bite carries the flavour of our region, fresh, vibrant, and rooted in place. Perfect as a side, or simply enjoyed on their own, warm from the oven.

22/07/2025

Chris and Ilze Bosch from purchased the Dal Rivier Farm in Dal Josafat in the late 1990s. The farm has a natural spring and was once called “Living Waters”. Dal Rivier boasted almost 1,000 olive trees of the Mission cultivar at this point, but it didn’t take the new owners long to realise the potential of developing Dal Rivier into a fully functioning olive producing farm. There are now close to 10,000 trees that yield superior quality olives that are pressed on the farm in a state-of-the-art processing facility. Dal Rivier Farm is operated by Julius Bosch and supplies the Olive Factory retail chain. The farm is also the exclusive provider of EVOO for - the main ingredient in their handmade olive oil soaps.

To learn more about Olive Factory, visit our website (link in bio).

09/07/2025

Why Cook with Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)? 

Extra virgin olive oil isn't just a flavorful addition to your dishes—it's a powerhouse of health benefits:

Heart-Healthy Fats: Rich in monounsaturated fats, EVOO supports cardiovascular health and may reduce inflammation.

Antioxidant-Rich: Packed with antioxidants like oleocanthal and oleuropein.

Heat Stability: Contrary to myths, EVOO remains stable at typical cooking temperatures, retaining its nutritional value. 

Versatile in the Kitchen: Perfect for sautéing, roasting, or drizzling over salads—EVOO enhances flavour while promoting health.

Elevate your cooking with EVOO and savor uboth taste and wellness!