Would you like tasting Extra Virgin Olive oil as an expert, but you don’t know how? Have you ever gone to an oil tasting and you have eaten the bread before starting? Does the word «organoleptic» sound like Greek to you, but you know how to enjoy a good EVOO? Then you are in the right place.
In this QvExtra’s blog article we offer you a basic guide to learn how to taste an Extra Virgin Olive Oil without leaving home. To begin with, you will need a lot of patience, a goodSiqev 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 intervene in this process in order to appreciate and rate the characteristics of olive juice. It is a genuine ritual that, first of all, needs the best environment. And we are not only referring to a quiet space, without distractions, where the senses 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 clean the tongue papillae between tastings.
That said, an EVOO tasting consists of three phases: olfactory, gustatory and visual. Let’s discover them with our Siqev!
Olfactory phase
In this first step of the tasting, hold the glass and cover it with the other hand, shaking it so that it warms up to about 28ºC. This process, which can be complex, only takes a few minutes and will allow 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 attention. Now answer the question: What does the aroma remind you of? Herb, mint, tomato, apple, almonds… Once you have an interesting list, take a break and try a second tasting, more are sure to appear!
Gustatory phase
This phase underlines in the mouth many of the aromas previously analysed. The fun and surprise lies in discovering many more. Even unexpected taste sensations such as spiciness, bitterness or sweetness.
Our recommendation is to introduce a small amount of EVOO in the mouth and to impregnate all the papillae with the liquid. Once we have it, try to suck in some air so that it mixes with the aromas, thus allowing it to oxygenate and achieve a simpler and more accurate analysis.
What does the flavour remind you of? If it’s a Siqev the result will leave no one indifferent, so have fun and do your research. Taste other EVOOs which are not Siqev and compare the results.
With practice and a good product, a range of sensory possibilities opens up, worthy of your best moments.
Enjoy it!
