What is new oil?
It's the oil from the recently completed harvest: olives picked by hand in October, pressed within a few hours and bottled quickly. This is when aromas and polyphenols are at their peak.
When does it go on sale?
Usually in November, right after the harvest and milling. This is the window when you can find the freshest oil of the vintage, before time gradually diminishes its aromas and antioxidant components.
Is it worth buying it right after the harvest?
Yes, if you then store it correctly: in the dark, at a constant temperature, in a well-sealed bottle. This way, you will preserve the aromatic profile and the polyphenols that make new oil special for longer.
Frequently asked questions
Does new oil taste different from more mature oil?
Yes, it's more pungent and vegetal: the bitterness and spiciness soften slightly in the following months.
Do I have to consume new oil immediately after buying it?
No, store it properly: it maintains its qualities for about 18 months from bottling.