The best olive oils to drink are high-quality extra virgin olive oils (EVOO) that have low acidity, high polyphenol content, and a pleasant, balanced flavor profile. These oils are minimally processed, cold-pressed, and rich in antioxidants, making them suitable for direct consumption.
Recommended Olive Oils for Drinking
- Nobleza del Sur Organic Early Harvest Olive Oils : These oils from Andalusia are highly awarded, organic, with very low acidity and high polyphenols, making them excellent for drinking due to their health benefits and flavor
- Le Ferre from Apulia : Known for the Coratina olive variety, which has a high polyphenol level, this Italian oil offers a robust and healthy option for drinking
- Graza Extra Virgin Olive Oil : Sourced from ancient olive trees in Spain, Graza has an extremely high polyphenol count and is nutrient-dense. It comes in blends designed for cold use and low-medium heat cooking, with the cold-use blend ideal for drinking and dipping
- Cobram Estate California Select Extra Virgin Olive Oil : This oil is bright, grassy, fresh, and complex, with a buttery finish and a hint of pepperiness. It is excellent as a finishing oil and for drinking due to its balanced flavor and freshness (harvest date provided)
- Fat Gold Extra Virgin Olive Oil : A small-batch California oil with nuanced, fresh, and lively flavors. It comes in bolder and milder options, both suitable for drinking and culinary use
- Manni Extra Virgin Olive Oil : A fresh, complex, and bold Italian oil from Tuscany, best used sparingly due to its intensity and price, but excellent for drinking if you want a premium experience
- Frankies 457 Extra-Virgin Olive Oil : A buttery, bitter, and spicy oil from Sicily, certified organic and single-origin, great for drinking and finishing dishes
Key Qualities for Drinking Olive Oil
- Extra Virgin Grade : Highest quality, cold-pressed from the first pressing of olives, retaining natural flavors and nutrients
- High Polyphenol Content : Polyphenols are antioxidants that provide health benefits and a peppery, bitter taste that indicates freshness and quality
- Low Acidity ( <0.8%): Indicates high quality and better flavor
- Freshness : Look for harvest dates and proper packaging (dark glass or tins) to preserve quality
Summary
For drinking olive oil, choose premium extra virgin olive oils with high polyphenol levels and fresh, balanced flavors. Nobleza del Sur, Le Ferre, Graza, and select California and Italian small-batch oils like Cobram Estate, Fat Gold, and Manni are among the best options. These oils offer health benefits and a pleasant taste experience when consumed straight or drizzled over foods
