Tour through Jaén’s Olive Groves: How Extra Virgin Olive Oil is Made

Published: 9th October, 2009

Jaén, located in the heart of Andalusia, is the largest producer of olive oil in Spain and the world. Known for its vast olive groves, Jaén offers a unique experience for those interested in learning about the production of high-quality extra virgin olive oil (AOVE). If you’ve ever wondered how this prized oil is made, a tour through the olive groves of Jaén is a must.

Jaén: The Olive Oil Capital of the World

Jaén is Spain’s largest producer of olive oil, with thousands of hectares of olive groves covering the landscape. The province is famous for its picual variety of olive, considered one of the best for producing extra virgin olive oil due to its fruity flavor and high concentration of antioxidants and oleic acid.

Jaén’s extra virgin olive oil is the region’s flagship product, and its flavor, aroma, and quality are largely due to the Mediterranean climate, the fertile land, and the experience of the local producers. The olive groves of Jaén are not only a visual spectacle but also offer a rich agricultural and cultural tradition.

What to Expect from a Jaén Olive Grove Tour

A tour through Jaén’s olive groves offers an immersive experience in the production of extra virgin olive oil, from the olive trees to the final product. Here’s what you can expect:

Visit the Olive Groves: Learn about the cultivation of olives, the care for the trees, and the different harvesting techniques.
Harvesting Process: Discover how olives are picked, traditionally by hand or using mechanical methods, during the harvest season from October to January.
The Olive Mill (Almazara): Watch the process of grinding, crushing, and pressing the olives to extract the oil. Learn how the cold extraction method ensures the high quality of extra virgin olive oil.
Olive Oil Tasting: End the tour with a tasting of different varieties of olive oil produced in the region. Experience the complex flavors and aromas of Jaén’s extra virgin olive oils.

Why Jaén’s Olive Oil is So Special

Jaén’s extra virgin olive oil is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality. The key factors include:

Mediterranean Climate: The warm, dry climate enhances the flavor and quality of the olives.
Picual Variety: The picual olive is the most common in Jaén and is known for its robust flavor and high antioxidant content.
Local Expertise: Jaén’s farmers have generations of experience in olive cultivation, using both traditional and modern techniques.