What is Extra Virgin Olive Oil Anyway? For thousands of years, Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) has been celebrated as "liquid gold" – a pure and natural olive juice known for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits. Derived from the fruit of the olive tree, a traditional Mediterranean crop, EVOO is produced by pressing whole olives harvested during the early stages of ripeness, typically from November to February in the Northern Hemisphere. The result is a high-quality oil that is central to the Mediterranean diet and loved worldwide for its unique taste and nutritional properties. Polyphenols: The Powerful Antioxidants in EVOO Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants found abundantly in Extra Virgin Olive Oil, contributing to its distinctive flavors, such as peppery and bitter notes. Varieties like Picual, known for their high polyphenol content, are particularly prized. These compounds, including Oleuropein, Oleocanthal, and hydroxytyrosol, are linked to many of the health benefits of EVOO, from anti-inflammatory effects to improved heart health. It's essential to consume fresh, high-quality EVOO to maximize these benefits, as polyphenols degrade over time and when exposed to heat, oxygen, and light. Picual Olive: The Backbone of Olivar Santamaria EVOO 0 Defects Acidity <0.20% Oleic Acid 80% Polyphenols 500+ High Smoke Point of 405°F Picual olives, primarily grown in Spain's Province of Jaén and the Andalucía region, are known for their high polyphenol content and rich flavor profile. Olivar Santamaria Picual EVOO is a premium product with impressive analytical figures, including: This EVOO is perfect for everyday use, whether in sauces, salads, or as a dipper for bread. Its peppery kick and bitterness indicate high polyphenol content, contributing to its health benefits. Santamaria Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Premium Hojiblanca Variety | First Cold ... Olivar Santamaria | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Premium Picual Variety Finishing... Olivar Santamaria | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Premium Picual Variety | First C... Olivar Santamaria | Extra Virgin Olive Oil | Premium Picual Variety | First C... Buying Options Add to Cart Add to Cart Add to Cart Customer Reviews 5.0 out of 5 stars 5 4.0 out of 5 stars 17 4.8 out of 5 stars 23 4.1 out of 5 stars 10 Price — no data $22.95$22.95 $51.00$51.00 $85.00$85.00 Size 5 Liters 500ml 3 Liters 5 Liters Variety Hojiblanca Picual Picual Picual