What is Early Harvest Oil?
Early Harvest EVOO is the oil obtained from olives harvested just at the moment when they begin to change from green to purple , a process known as veraison .
The ideal time for harvesting is usually October-November , although it varies depending on the type of olive and the growing area.
This produces oils rich in chlorophyll, with antioxidant properties and low fat yields.
They tend to be much more intensely aromatic and spicy oils than other oils, with very varied nuances.
What are the benefits of Early Harvest oil?
This EVOO has a high nutritional value, as it contains a large amount of polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that protect the oil and prevent it from oxidizing.
It contains more vitamins and minerals than other oils and also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
It helps digestion and fights constipation, prevents cardiovascular diseases, has anti-cancer properties, and strengthens our immune system, which is so necessary in these times.
It is also a great ally for the skin, eliminating wrinkles, moisturizing and acting as a natural balm for eczema and irritations.
Why are Early Harvest EVOOs more expensive?
To extract the same amount of oil, we need two or three times as many young olives. Production costs are therefore higher and the production of this type of oil is much more limited.
The processes used for its harvesting, treatment and subsequent production are much more expensive and delicate. The olive is pampered throughout the year to achieve maximum yield. This is why this oil is somewhat more expensive, but both its flavour and aroma, as well as the number of benefits it has for our health, make purchasing this oil worthwhile.
How to differentiate an Early Harvest EVOO from one that is not?
They are characterized by their bright green color, herbaceous, fresh fruity aromas, more powerful and fruity than olive oils harvested from riper olives. They are also spicier and more bitter than the others.
A more technical characteristic of these oils is their acidity, which must be around 0.2º or 0.3º for them to be considered First Harvest. This is a very low degree, considering that an Extra Virgin can reach 0.8º of acidity.
