Navigating the supermarket olive oil aisle can be daunting. With countless bottles promising 'extra virgin' quality at wildly varying prices, how do you know which ones actually deliver? We've done the hard work for you, conducting rigorous taste tests to separate the truly exceptional from the merely ordinary.
What Makes a Great Olive Oil?
True extra virgin olive oil should be fresh, fruity, and slightly peppery. It's the first cold pressing of olives, containing no refined oils. The best examples will transport you to sun-drenched Mediterranean groves with their vibrant flavour and aroma.
Our Testing Methodology
Our panel of food experts conducted blind tastings of numerous supermarket offerings, evaluating each oil on:
- Freshness and fruitiness - The hallmark of quality EVOO
- Pepperiness - That characteristic kick at the back of the throat
- Bitterness - A desirable trait when balanced
- Versatility - Performance in both cooking and raw applications
- Value for money - Quality relative to price point
The Gold Standard: Waitrose Duchy Organic
Waitrose's Duchy Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil emerged as our clear winner. This exceptional oil boasts remarkable complexity with notes of green tomato, artichoke, and fresh-cut grass. The peppery finish is perfectly balanced, making it ideal for drizzling over salads, bread, or finished dishes.
What sets it apart is its incredible versatility. While premium enough to enjoy raw, it holds up beautifully in cooking, adding depth to roasted vegetables and Mediterranean dishes without losing its character.
Surprising Budget Champions
Not every standout oil comes with a premium price tag. Aldi's Specially Selected Sicilian Lemon Infused Olive Oil offers incredible value and unique flavour. The bright citrus notes make it perfect for dressing seafood, chicken, or summer salads.
Similarly, Tesco's Finest Greek Kalamata Extra Virgin Olive Oil delivers authentic Greek flavour at an accessible price point. Its robust character stands up well to strong flavours like garlic and herbs.
What to Look For When Buying
- Harvest date - Fresher is better. Look for the most recent harvest
- Dark glass bottles - Protect the oil from light degradation
- Origin information - Single-origin oils often offer more consistent quality
- PDO/PGI certification - Guarantees authentic production methods
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Beware of oils labelled simply as 'from mixed EU origins' - these blends often lack character. Also, avoid any oil that smells musty or greasy, as this indicates poor quality or age.
Storage is crucial too. Keep your olive oil away from heat and light, and use within a few months of opening to enjoy it at its best.
The Verdict
Whether you're seeking an everyday workhorse or a special occasion drizzle, British supermarkets now offer genuinely excellent olive oil options. From Waitrose's premium organic offering to Aldi's surprisingly sophisticated infused oils, there's quality to be found at every price point.
Our testing proves you don't need to visit specialty shops to find exceptional olive oil - the best might be waiting in your local supermarket aisle.
