DISCOVER WHY EARLY HARVEST GREEK OLIVES FROM LAKONIA PRODUCE SUPERIOR OLIVE OILS RICH IN ANTIOXIDANTS AND LOW IN ACIDITY
Early harvest olive oil has earned a reputation as the healthiest and most flavorful choice among olive oil enthusiasts. The timing of the harvest influences not only the olive oil’s taste but also its nutritional profile, including beneficial polyphenols and low acidity.
What Makes Early Harvest Olive Oil Different?
Unlike standard harvests that wait for olives to reach full ripeness, early harvest olives are collected when still green or just beginning to turn purple. At this stage, olives have higher levels of polyphenols, which are natural antioxidants responsible for the olive oil’s flavor and health-promoting benefits. In Lakonia, the ideal climate and soil conditions help maximize these attributes in Greek olives, making early harvest olive oils from this region especially rich in flavor and nutrients.
Higher Polyphenol Content Means Greater Health Benefits
Polyphenols such as oleocanthal and hydroxytyrosol found in early harvest olive oils act as powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. Regular consumption supports cardiovascular health by improving cholesterol levels, reducing inflammation, and protecting blood vessels from oxidative stress. The antioxidant-rich profile of early harvest oils also contributes to their potential in supporting brain health and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. Scientific studies have linked diets rich in these compounds, like the Mediterranean diet, with longer lifespans and reduced incidence of age-related conditions.
Lower Acidity Enhances Flavor and Quality
Acidity levels in olive oil reflect the amount of free fatty acids present, which increase as the fruit deteriorates or is damaged. Early harvest oils from Greek olives typically exhibit lower acidity, often below 0.5 percent, and sometimes as low as 0.2 percent, indicating superior freshness and careful handling.
Harvesting and Processing: Preserving the Best of the Crop
Seasoned producers carefully monitor olives, waiting for the right moment to harvest. Knowing the right moment ensures both flavor intensity and the optimal amount of extracted oil. Performing the cold-pressed extraction within hours of harvesting allows the olive oil to also retain antioxidants, color, and complex aromas.
Choosing Authentic Early Harvest Olive Oil from Lakonia
To experience the full benefits of early harvest olive oil, look for single-origin oils made from Greek olives grown in Lakonia. Packaging in dark glass bottles helps protect the oil’s quality by shielding it from light, and cold-pressed labels indicate careful processing. Supporting small-scale producers dedicated to traditional farming and milling methods not only guarantees superior olive oil but also helps preserve the rich heritage of Greek olive cultivation.
Discover the True Essence of Greek Olive Oil
Crafted in Lakonia, Greece, Truly Greek olive oils are rooted in family tradition and village pride. The olives, Athenolia and Koroneiki, are harvested from local groves to preserve their fresh flavor and naturally low acidity. The result is a collection of oils that reflect the soul of the Mediterranean: pure, balanced, and unforgettable.
Truly Greek Premium 0.2 Extra Virgin Olive Oil — 100 Percent Athenolia Olives
This internationally recognized olive oil is crafted exclusively from Athenolia olives grown in Lakonia. Cold-pressing within one to four hours of harvesting the olives gives our premium olive oil an acidity level of just 0.2 percent (a rarity in olive oils). Truly Greek Premium 0.2 delivers a smooth texture, buttery richness, and refined complexity. Ideal for salads, warm bread, or as a finishing touch, this olive oil reflects the finest expression of cold-pressed Greek tradition. This olive oil can be used for stovetop cooking at temperatures between 375 and 410 degrees Fahrenheit, with careful monitoring.
Truly Greek Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil — 100 Percent Koroneiki Olives
Made from Koroneiki olives, known as the “queen of olives,” this bold and balanced olive oil features a naturally low acidity of 0.5 percent. Truly Greek Classic Extra Virgin Olive Oil is cold-pressed and offers a high polyphenol content. Use it for marinades, roasted vegetables, or everyday cooking to bring a true taste of Greece to the table.
