Olive oil is not only a delicious culinary staple but also offers significant health benefits. Rich in beneficial fats and antioxidants, it supports cardiovascular health, reduces inflammation, and may enhance brain function. Extra virgin olive oil, in particular, stands out due to its minimal processing, which preserves nutrients and flavour. Its versatility makes it ideal for cooking, dressing salads, or simply serving with bread, with flavours varying widely based on origin.
Comprehensive Taste Test Methodology
I conducted a thorough tasting of 12 different olive and avocado oils, sourced from both major retailers and independent producers. This process highlighted the remarkable diversity in quality and taste, making it rewarding to identify those that truly excel. The testing focused on flavour profiles, versatility, and value for money, providing insights for everyday consumers.
Premium Selections: Belazu Oils
Belazu Early Harvest Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This oil is crafted from Arbequina olives harvested early, resulting in a richer flavour. It proved delightful when drizzled over salads or used for dipping bread like focaccia. Among the more characterful oils sampled, it costs £22.50 for 1L or £11.50 for 500ml, reflecting its premium status.
Score: 4/5
Belazu Verdemanda Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Another Spanish extra virgin olive oil from Arbequina olives, this unfiltered version is flash-frozen post-pressing to maintain freshness. Harvested early for vibrant colour, it offers a lively, bold taste with a pronounced grassy note, perfect for finishing dishes like salads. Priced at £21 for 500ml, it is a steeper investment.
Score: 3.5/5
Belazu Crete Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Derived from Koroneiki olives grown in Crete, this Greek oil is a well-balanced, richly flavoured option with a gentle peppery finish. More harmonious and accessible than the Spanish varieties, it serves as an excellent all-rounder. Currently available at Waitrose for £8.15 per 500ml, it offers great value, though such premium oils may not fit all budgets.
Score: 3/5
Innovative Options: GOOD PHATS
Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil Spray
This traditional, fruity olive oil features delicate peppery undertones and is highly adaptable. Ideal for drizzling over salads, breads, and lightly charred vegetables, it costs approximately £6.50 for 200ml. Its rich yet not overwhelming taste makes it a kitchen essential.
Score: 4/5
Spanish Light Avocado Oil Spray
Not an olive oil, this avocado spray is gentle, creamy, and silky, with a high smoke point suitable for high-temperature cooking. Its subtle flavour doesn't dominate meals, and it costs around £6.50 for 200ml. It emerged as a top favourite in the test.
Score: 5/5
Italian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
This punchy, full-bodied oil with a spicy finish and emerald hue delivers classic Italian characteristics. Currently discounted on Ocado to £12.50 per 500ml (usually £15.60), it excels as a finishing touch on pasta, grilled vegetables, or fish.
Score: 4/5
Spanish Light Avocado Oil
Available in a drizzle container, this oil became a surprise go-to for daily cooking due to its wonderful flavour. Priced roughly at £6.50 for 200ml, often discounted, it shares the high rating of its spray counterpart.
Score: 5/5
Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil
In a practical drizzle container, this extra virgin olive oil is excellent for various dishes, including salads. Currently £11.95 for a 700ml bottle (normally £14.95 on Ocado), it offers good value and has proven reliable in the kitchen.
Score: 4/5
Specialty and Supermarket Finds
bonabona's Organic Arbequina Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Retailing at £22.50 for 750ml, this oil balances flavour, nutrition, and eco-friendly farming. Vacuum-sealed to preserve flavour and polyphenols, it features a tap that prevents oxidation. Despite some criticism over fast pouring, it is thoroughly enjoyable with thoughtful design.
Score: 3/5
Asda's Exceptional Greek Koroneiki Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Priced at £7.70, this bottle offers a tasty option with subtle peppery kick and bitter, nutty notes. While versatile, it didn't stand out significantly compared to others sampled.
Score: 3.5/5
Asda's Extra Special Spanish Picual Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Made from Spain's traditional Picual olives, this oil boasts an intense fruity fragrance and rich flavour without being overwhelming. Ideal for dipping, drizzling, or finishing grilled vegetables, its bold character transforms simple salads.
Score: 3/5
Whole Foods Market 365 Extra Virgin Mediterranean Olive Oil
A reliable, versatile option with smooth, well-balanced flavour and no peppery bite, suitable for cooking and drizzling. However, it didn't particularly stand out, and due to limited availability, it may not be a top choice.
Score: 2.5/5
Key Takeaways and Surprising Winners
This tasting journey revealed significant differences in oils based on extraction techniques and origins. The avocado oil sprays, particularly the Spanish Light Avocado Oil Spray, emerged as surprising winners due to their convenience, tidiness, and superior control. Additionally, affordable supermarket options like Asda's selections proved competitive, offering good value without compromising on taste. Ultimately, discovering oils that excel in flavour and practicality can enhance everyday cooking experiences.
