Would you like to taste Extra Virgin Olive oil like an expert does, but you don’t know how? Have you ever gone to an oil tasting event and eaten the bread before starting? Does the word ‘organoleptic’ sound like Greek to you, but nonetheless you know how to enjoy a good EVOO? Then you are in the right place.
In this QvExtra! blog article, we bring you a basic guide to teach you how to taste an Extra Virgin Olive Oil without leaving the comfort of your home. To begin with, you will need a lot of patience, a good SIQEV EVOO, another type of oil to appreciate the differences, and coffee cups for serving samples.
Things you need to know before starting the tasting
Tasting is not just about using the palate. All senses are used in this process in order to appreciate and rate the characteristics of the olive juice. It is a genuine practice that, first of all, needs a suitable environment. We are not only referring to a quiet space, without distractions so that the different senses can focus on the product, but also to the aroma or the temperature of the room itself.
To achieve the perfect setting, avoid using perfumes or air fresheners, as well as smoking. In addition, we recommend some bread or green apple to cleanse your palate between samples.
That being said, EVOO tasting consists of two phases: olfactory and gustatory. Let’s discover them with our SIQEV!
Olfactory phase
In this first step of the tasting, hold the glass from the bottom and cover it with your other hand, and gently shake it so that it warms up to around 28ºC. This process, which can sometimes be complex, only takes a few minutes and allows the EVOO to release its aromas and volatile molecules.
Then, bring the glass to your nose and inhale until it fills your lungs. Do it patiently and paying close attention to what you are inhaling. Now answer the question: what does the aroma remind you of? Grass, mint, tomato, apple, almonds… Once you have an interesting list, take a break and try a second tasting, and you’re likely to think of more ideas!
Gustatory phase
This phase highlights in your mouth many of the aromas previously analysed. The fun and surprising part lies in discovering many more aromas. Perhaps even unexpected taste sensations such as spiciness, bitterness or sweetness.
Our recommendation is to take a very small sip of EVOO and move it around your mouth so that all of your tastebuds are covered. Then, take a small breath to mix the air with the oil, therefore oxygenating it, and helping you to achieve a simpler and more accurate analysis.
What does the flavour remind you of? If it’s a SIQEV EVOO then the result is sure to impress you, so have fun and do your research! Try tasting other EVOOs which are not SIQEV-certified and compare the results.
With practice and a good product, a range of sensory possibilities await you, giving you some enjoyable memories.
Have fun!
