Experts Rate 14 Extra Virgin Olive Oils: Value, Mid-Range, and Premium Picks

Four experts, including a chef, an olive oil sommelier, a producer, and an importer, blind-tested 14 extra virgin olive oils ranging in price from £5.49 to £13. The tasting aimed to determine which popular brands offered the best quality and value.

The panel evaluated each oil on its taste, aroma, complexity, and balance. A key metric for extra virgin olive oil is its acidity level, which must not exceed 0.8 percent, while standard virgin olive oil has a maximum limit of two percent.

Which? purchased all the tested products to ensure unbiased results, avoiding any reliance on free samples. The full reviews are available on which.co.uk/olive-oils.

Best Value Pick

The top-rated value option was praised for its fresh aroma and a light, balanced taste with delicate notes of tropical fruit and banana. Its larger bottle size compared to other supermarket options also contributed to its cost-effectiveness. However, testers noted that its flavor was less intense than some of the other oils sampled.

Best Mid-Range Option

This mid-range oil impressed with its lingering peppery aftertaste, which experts suggested would complement dishes like prosciutto or carpaccio. The primary drawback noted was a slightly greasy mouthfeel, which might not appeal to all.

Best Premium Choice

The highest-rated oil across all four experts was celebrated for its robust flavor profile, described as fresh and fruity with a pleasant peppery bitterness. Testers also remarked on its grassy aroma. The main consideration for this product is its higher price point of £12.

Historically, olive oil was viewed with suspicion in Britain, with Victorian-era writers suggesting it was suitable only for deep-frying or as a remedy for flatulence. However, it has since become a staple, frequently promoted for its health benefits and culinary versatility. Today, it is commonly consumed in various ways, from wellness shots to gourmet dessert toppings.