Unveiling Andalusia's Olive Oil Secrets
Andalusia in southern Spain is home to nearly a third of global olive oil production. A visit to the Almazara El Toro estate, where French architect Philippe Starck has reimagined an olive-oil mill and museum, reveals that the character of olive oil is determined early on, even before it reaches the mill.
Spain grows over 400 olive varieties, with different plantations yielding oils with distinct personalities. For example, harsher mountain conditions can produce more intense, fruitier oils rich in polyphenols, which contribute to the health benefits associated with extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO).
Chef Manuel Navarro Mena, at the Anantara Villa Padierna Palace Benahavís Marbella Resort, emphasizes the importance of matching the intensity of the oil with the character of the ingredients. He advises reading the aroma, balance, and sensations on the palate to find the perfect pairing.