California Olive Oils

Kathleen Underwood
14 min readSep 15, 2024
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Indulge in the rich, fruity flavors of California Olive Oil as we round up a selection of top-quality options. Discover why this golden elixir is a true culinary delight and learn how it's produced right here in the Golden State. Get ready to elevate your favorite recipes with the perfect addition.

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Reviews

Kirkland Signature California Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1 Liter - Costco

Kirkland Signature California Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 1 Liter — Costco | Image

Kirkland Signature's California Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a high-quality product, perfect for those looking to add a touch of class to their culinary creations. The 1-liter glass bottle holds a generous amount of this rich, robust oil, making it an excellent value for its price. For those who are cost-conscious, this Kirkland product from Costco may just be the one to please your taste buds while keeping your wallet happy. Its mild, aromatic flavor complements a wide variety of dishes, from salads to dips, allowing you to play around in the kitchen with confidence.

However, one downside to this remarkable oil is the lack of reviews and ratings. With no feedback from other users, it's difficult to gauge the overall satisfaction with the product. Additionally, those with a preference for cold-pressed or organically grown olive oils may be turned off by this product, as it does not specify these details in its description.

In summary, Kirkland Signature's California Extra Virgin Olive Oil is an affordable, flavorful addition to any pantry, but potential buyers should be aware of the absence of user feedback and its origins.

California-Grown, Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Everyday Fresh Flavors

California-Grown, Extra Virgin Olive Oil for Everyday Fresh Flavors | Image

The California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil, available in a 25.4 fl oz bottle, is a top-rated product with a 4.6-star rating and over 450 reviews. This versatile oil, with a smooth, green apple aroma, is perfect for everyday use and can be used for baking, sautéing, and various other cooking methods. The lightweight, recyclable plastic bottle makes it an eco-friendly choice too.

Highlights of this product include its everyday fresh flavor, California-grown olive oil, first cold press, and availability in a larger chef size. Customers have praised the oil for its great taste and texture and its ease of dispensing. The oil is also suitable for a variety of dishes, from salads to fish, and can even be used as a hot oil for added flavor.

However, some users have mentioned that the oil contained in the bottle might not be 100% California olive oil, as advertised. They suggest being mindful of the product label and considering purchasing it from a trusted source to ensure its authenticity. Overall, the California Olive Ranch Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a popular and versatile choice for those seeking a high-quality, everyday olive oil.

Premium California Olive Oil by Brightland

Premium California Olive Oil by Brightland | Image

Recently, I had the opportunity to try Brightland Alive Olive Oil, and let me tell you, it was a delightful experience. The olives used in this oil are hand-picked, and the result is a rich, smooth texture that is perfect for cooking and drizzling over various dishes.

One of the things that stood out to me was the aroma of the oil. It has a pleasant, fresh scent that reminds you of the countryside. I also appreciated the fact that the shelf life of the product is around 12-18 months, which is a great feature for an olive oil.

However, there was one downside to this product that I noticed. The cap of the bottle can be quite difficult to dispense, especially for someone who doesn't have a full range of motion. It would be great if the company could find a way to make the cap more accessible, perhaps by adding a loop or grip.

Overall, I found Brightland Alive Olive Oil to be a wonderful product. Its clean, bright taste adds an extra dimension to any dish, and I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a high-quality olive oil.

Garlic Crushed California Olive Oil: Flavorful Dip and Spread

Garlic Crushed California Olive Oil: Flavorful Dip and Spread | Image

Experience the unique fusion of fresh garlic and extra virgin olive oil, crafted using plump California garlic cloves and fresh olives. This premium garlic olive oil is perfect for adding a spicy-sweet twist to your sandwiches, marinades, or dips. Try using it as a steamed artichoke dip or an instant garlic bread topping for a delightful and gourmet touch to your dishes.

Sevillano California Olive Oil - Premium and Versatile

Sevillano California Olive Oil — Premium and Versatile | Image

Experience the delightful taste of the award-winning Sevillano California Olive Oil from Sciabica & Sons. Crafted from the perfect blend of flavors, this golden elixir is perfect for bread dipping, salad dressings, and main courses. With a unique flavor profile reminiscent of artichokes and fresh herbs, this versatile olive oil shines brightly - just like a summer sunset.

Great Value California Cold-Pressed Olive Oil - 16.9 fl oz

Great Value California Cold-Pressed Olive Oil — 16.9 fl oz | Image

Gather your kitchen essentials and elevate your cooking experience with Great Value California Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Enhance your meals with the distinctively smooth flavor, perfect for marinades, salad dressings, or as a heart-healthy alternative to butter. Hailing from the rich olive groves of California, this premium oil is brought straight to your table in a large container, ideal for frequent use in your daily dishes. Great Value ensures your family can enjoy affordable, high-quality products for all your grocery needs.

California Olive Ranch 2L Premium Bag-in-Box Extra Virgin Olive Oil

California Olive Ranch 2L Premium Bag-in-Box Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Image

Experience the vibrant flavors of California Olive Ranch's 100% California Bag-in-Box Extra Virgin Olive Oil. This 2L pack of versatile oil has a well-rounded taste, perfect for various cooking methods including marinating, sautéing, roasting, grilling, frying, and even baking. With an air-tight interior bag that keeps oil fresher for longer, it truly is a premium choice for any kitchen.

Cobram Estate Extra Virgin California Olive Oil

Cobram Estate Extra Virgin California Olive Oil | Image

Cobram Estate's Extra Virgin California Select Olive Oil offers a rich, robust, and complex taste from the Sacramento Valley. Made from 100% California olives, it boasts a fine balance of bitter and peppery flavors that are clean and bright on the palate. The oil is perfect for sautéing, roasting, or drizzling on various dishes, as it holds its healthiness at high temperatures and tastes incredible on its own.

Its convenient pop-up pourer spout ensures a clean and easy pour, without any extra residue. The all-natural olives are packed with polyphenols, antioxidants known to help fight inflammation, aging, and weight gain. This award-winning olive oil has a history of gold wins at various competitions, making it a must-try for any olive oil enthusiast.

Organic California Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 250ml Bottle

Organic California Extra Virgin Olive Oil, 250ml Bottle | Image

This organic extra virgin olive oil from California is a top choice for discerning chefs seeking the finest quality. Crushed within hours of harvest, it retains a high level of polyphenols and antioxidants, providing a fresh, light, and luscious taste.

Suitable for gluten-free and yeast-free diets, it adds depth and flavor to any dish when combined with O vinegars, herbs, and spices. Family-farmed with love, it's a wholesome and delicious addition to your culinary creations.

Fresh 2021 Harvest California Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Fresh 2021 Harvest California Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Image

Bariani's California Olive Oil Extra Virgin has left a long-lasting impression on my taste buds. The moment I cracked open the bottle, I was greeted by a pungent, fresh aroma that immediately transported me to an olive grove in Tuscany. As I drizzled it over my salad, I couldn't help but notice its thick, silky texture that coated each leaf perfectly.

What truly sets this olive oil apart is its bitterness - a testament to its unfiltered nature and cold-pressed extraction. It's not an overbearing bitterness that turns you off, but rather a subtle, complex flavor that complements the earthy, fruity notes, creating a symphony of flavors in my mouth. This is not a 'one size fits all' kind of oil; it's more like a 'handcrafted art piece', each batch being unique in its taste.

However, using this olive oil regularly isn't cheap. The price tag can be a bit of a shock, especially if you're used to your average supermarket olive oils. Another downside? The shipping cost can be pretty steep. But remember, "you get what you pay for", and in the case of Bariani California Olive Oil Extra Virgin, you are paying for premium quality.

As such, it's an investment worth considering for those who value not only taste but also health benefits. This olive oil is rich in polyphenols and is perfect for a ketogenic diet or as part of a heart-healthy routine.

In conclusion, Bariani California Olive Oil Extra Virgin is a product of pride and tradition. It's an oil that isn't just used to enhance the flavor of food, but also serves as a celebration of the beautiful culture it comes from. Therefore, if you're looking for a high-quality, authentically bittersweet, and nutritious olive oil, then this is the gem you've been searching for.

Organic California Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Handpicked and Cold-Pressed for Rich Flavor

Organic California Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Handpicked and Cold-Pressed for Rich Flavor | Image

I recently had the pleasure of trying the Extra Virgin Olive Oil from California, and I must say, it exceeded my expectations. The delicate balance between the two olive varieties, Arbequina and Koroneiki, harvested from the same family estate, truly shines through.

The vibrant finishing olive oil is perfect for enhancing the flavors of your favorite dishes. I especially enjoyed using it in vinaigrettes, as well as for seasoning grilled vegetables and meats. Its grassy nose and rich mouthfeel complemented the mild flavor, while the slight peppery note added an extra touch of complexity.

The 500ml bottle, which is also a perfect size to match our vinegar bottles, is thoughtfully packaged to encourage the 2-parts olive oil to 1-part vinegar ratio in classic vinaigrette salad dressings. And with its Non-GMO Project verification and commitment to cold-pressed 100% organic olives, this product is a must-try for anyone who appreciates high-quality olive oil.

However, one thing to note is that the olive oil should be consumed within two months of opening the bottle for the best flavor, due to the olive harvest date of November 2022. Despite this minor inconvenience, I would highly recommend giving the Extra Virgin Olive Oil from California a try – it's a delightful addition to any home cook's pantry.

Premium California Arbequina Olive Oil: 750 ml

Premium California Arbequina Olive Oil: 750 ml | Image

I recently gave Arbequina's California extra virgin olive oil a spin in my daily cooking. It's a delight to behold, with a charming hue and aroma that dances on the senses. The olives were handpicked from groves in the sunny Capay Valley.

You can really taste the difference, with every mouthful packed full of savory herb and faint whispers of banana, all beautifully encased in a creamy texture. But, as much as I love the flavors, the bottle's size might be a bit of an issue for larger families.

All-in-all, I'm pretty pleased with my culinary adventure with this California olive oil.

California-Grown Lodi Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil - Perfect Flavor & Aroma

California-Grown Lodi Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil — Perfect Flavor & Aroma | Image

The Lodi Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil is a top-notch choice for those who value premium olive oils. As a California native, it boasts of being certified by the California Olive Oil Council (COOC) and comes in a sleek, 500ml glass bottle.

In my daily life, I've had the pleasure of using this Lodi Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil, and it's been nothing short of delightful. The olive flavor profile is clean and robust, while the fruity aroma adds a touch of freshness to any dish. The mild pepper finish is a pleasant surprise, rounding off the entire sensory experience.

However, there were a few drawbacks I encountered. The bottle size might be a bit too generous for average daily use, and some might find the price a tad steep for the quantity. Nonetheless, the quality of the olive oil more than makes up for these minor inconveniences.

Overall, the Lodi Ascolano Extra Virgin Olive Oil is undoubtedly a gourmet delight, offering a seamless blend of flavor, aroma, and texture. It's the type of olive oil that elevates any meal and makes your culinary journey all the more satisfying.

Buyer's Guide

Welcome to the buyer's guide for California Olive Oil. This comprehensive guide covers essential features, considerations, and expert advice to help you make an informed decision when purchasing quality olive oil from California. We encourage you to read through each section carefully to fully appreciate the nuances of California olive oils.

Growing Regions and Climate

California has a diverse range of growing regions, each with its unique climate and terroir. Some of the most prominent regions for olive oil production include Lodi, the Central Coast, and the Central Valley. Each location contributes different flavors and characteristics to the olives, which ultimately affect the quality and taste of the resulting olive oil.

Olive Variety and Cultivation

California olive oil comes from several varieties of olives, including Arbequina, Arbosana, Picual, and Manzanillo. Each varietal has its distinct taste profile and characteristics. Producers may also use blends of different varietals to create a well-balanced, complex olive oil. Cultivation methods can also impact the final product, with some growers utilizing organic farming practices or traditional methods to produce high-quality, artisanal olive oil.

Harvesting and Freshness

Harvesting is a crucial step in olive oil production, as the timing of when olives are picked can significantly influence the quality and flavor of the resulting oil. Early harvesting generally leads to a fresher, greener oil with fruity and vegetal notes, while late harvesting results in a more mature, milder oil with a buttery or nutty taste.

Certification and Grading

When shopping for California olive oil, look for certifications and grading systems that indicate the oil's quality. The California Olive Oil Council (COOC) has a certification program that guarantees the authenticity and quality of the product. Additionally, olive oil grading systems like Extra Virgin (high quality), Virgin (medium quality), and Refined (low quality) can assist you in making an informed decision.

FAQ

What sets California Olive Oil apart from others?

California Olive Oil boasts a unique identity, thanks to its diverse climate, a wealth of growing regions, and an increasing number of small-scale, artisanal producers. Its Mediterranean-like climate allows for the cultivation of a plethora of olive varieties, creating a rich tapestry of flavor profiles in California Olive Oils.

Moreover, many California Olive Oils are crafted from organically grown olives, ensuring that the oil is devoid of pesticides and other hazardous chemicals. Traditional processing methods are often employed by small-scale producers, resulting in a handcrafted, artisanal product with distinctive regional characteristics.

What kinds of olive oils can I discover in California?

California Olive Oil presents a wide assortment of varietals, including early-harvest, extra virgin, and infused oils. Early-harvest oils exhibit a more fruit-forward flavor profile, while those derived from mature olives possess a robust, bitter taste. The extra virgin grade guarantees a high antioxidant content and freedom from chemical additives.

Infused oils, on the other hand, are blended with a medley of herbs, spices, or citrus zest, bringing a novel twist to the familiar taste of olive oil. Some popular options encompass rosemary, garlic, basil, and lemon-infused olive oils. These infusions make California Olive Oils an excellent choice for cooking, baking, and decorating salads or pasta dishes.

Which brands are responsible for producing the majority of California Olive Oil?

While a multitude of small-scale producers can be found in California, a few large-scale brands dominate the state's olive oil market. These include McEvoy Ranch, California Olive Oil, and Lucas Oil. Despite the predominance of these brands, California's diverse landscape nurtures a thriving olive oil industry, with numerous producers offering an array of top-quality products.

These brands frequently collaborate with local growers in various growing regions to source the finest olives, ensuring the highest quality products for their customers. Simultaneously, many small-scale producers partner with these larger brands, highlighting the collaborative and dynamic nature of the California Olive Oil industry.

What are some recommended pairings for California Olive Oil?

California Olive Oils exhibit remarkable versatility and can be matched with a myriad of dishes. Some popular pairings include utilizing olive oil for sautéing vegetables, topping roasted meats with it, or dipping bread into it for an appetizer. California Olive Oils can also be incorporated into salad dressings, marinades, or used to heighten the flavor of baked goods.

Additionally, infused olive oils can elevate their flavors when paired with complementary ingredients. For instance, rosemary-infused olive oil complements roasted potatoes or chicken, while garlic-infused olive oil is perfect for cooking pasta dishes. Employing infused olive oils can bring depth and complexity to your culinary endeavors, making California Olive Oils an indispensable component of any kitchen.

How can I locate the best California Olive Oil?

To find the top-notch California Olive Oil, contemplate factors such as quality, production method, and the particular olive varietal that the oil has been crafted from. Visit local farmers' markets, upscale grocery stores, or exclusive specialty shops in your region to sample and purchase an assortment of California Olive Oils. Numerous online retailers also provide a diverse selection of California Olive Oils from which to choose.

Furthermore, seek companies that prioritize quality by using only organically grown olives and employing traditional, artisanal processing methods. Many California olive oil producers take pride in labeling their products with the specific olive varietal, harvest date, and region of origin, providing additional information to guide your choice.

What are the health benefits of California Olive Oil?

California Olive Oil offers numerous health benefits thanks to its high content of monounsaturated fats, mainly oleic acid, which has been demonstrated to promote heart health, among other possible advantages. The antioxidant-rich nature of extra virgin olive oils also aids in cell protection and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Moreover, the phytochemicals found in California Olive Oils, particularly oleocanthal, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory properties that might help reduce the risk of certain diseases. However, it is crucial to consume olive oil in moderation, as it is high in calories, which can still contribute to weight gain if consumed in excessive amounts.

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