Top 5 Olive Oils from Mallorca
Mallorca is home to some of the finest olive oils in the world, thanks to its unique Mediterranean climate, ancient olive trees, and a long-standing tradition of olive cultivation. Here’s a quick overview of the island’s top five olive oil producers and what sets them apart:
- Solivellas: Known for blending Arbequina, Picual, and other Mediterranean olives, Solivellas delivers oils with layered flavors. Their artisanal methods and vacuum-sealed packaging ensure quality.
- Aubocassa: Specializing in Arbequina and Picual varieties, Aubocassa uses cutting-edge temperature control systems to preserve the oil's natural compounds, resulting in bold, citrusy profiles.
- Treurer: A family-run estate focusing on Arbequina olives, Treurer produces oils with balanced fruity and peppery notes. They emphasize eco-friendly practices and early harvests.
- Son Catiu: Combining Arbequina and Picual olives, Son Catiu offers versatile oils, from mild and fruity to bold and intense, processed with same-day handpicked olives.
- Es Roquissar: Crafted exclusively from Mallorquina olives, Es Roquissar reflects the Tramuntana mountains' character with smooth, almond-like flavors and a touch of banana.
Each producer combines centuries-old techniques with modern advancements to create oils that highlight the island's terroir. Whether you prefer bold and spicy or mild and fruity, these oils bring the essence of Mallorca to your kitchen.
Quick Comparison
| Producer | Olive Varieties | Flavor Profile | Notable Features | Price (500 mL) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solivellas | Arbequina, Picual, others | Fruity and spicy blend | Cold-pressed, vacuum-sealed packaging | $17–$25 |
| Aubocassa | Arbequina, Picual | Bold citrus, green herbal notes | EVOOLINE cooling system | $25–$30 |
| Treurer | Arbequina | Fruity, peppery, and balanced | Eco-friendly, early harvest | $20–$28 |
| Son Catiu | Arbequina, Picual, blend | Mild and fruity to bold and intense | Same-day processing, handpicked olives | $17–$25 |
| Es Roquissar | Mallorquina | Smooth, almond, and banana-like flavors | Organic, mountain-grown olives | $32.50 |
These oils are more than just ingredients - they’re a reflection of Mallorca’s heritage and dedication to quality. Perfect for salads, meats, or simply dipping with bread, they elevate any dish while offering a taste of the Mediterranean.
Olive Oil and More at Finca Treurer in Algaida (Mallorca, Spain)
1. Solivellas
Nestled on the Es Guinyent Estate, close to the Mediterranean Sea and the Sierra de Tramontana, Solivellas has earned its place as one of Mallorca's standout olive oil producers. This family-run business blends traditional Mallorcan methods with modern techniques, crafting oils that celebrate both local and international olive varieties.
Olive Varieties Used
What sets Solivellas apart is its diverse approach to olive varieties. Instead of sticking to a single type, they use a mix that includes Arbequina, Picual, Hojiblanca, Frantoio, Koroneiki, and Picuda. Their two main product lines each highlight different blends: the flagship "Solivellas oli d'oliva extra verge" features Arbequina and Picual, while the "Oli s'Illa" blend showcases Hojiblanca and Picuda. They also use grafting techniques to incorporate other Mediterranean olive varieties, adding depth and complexity to their blends.
"With varieties like Arbequina, Picual, and Mallorquina, they're all about that high-quality, artisanal production. And let's not forget the Protected Designation of Origin Oli de Mallorca, ensuring you're getting the real deal. It's a taste of Mallorca in every drop!"
- Laura, Rexby
Production Methods
Solivellas takes an artisanal approach to ensure their oils are as fresh and flavorful as possible. They monitor their olives daily, harvesting them at just the right moment when the fruit is perfectly ripe and still green. This careful timing preserves the olives' natural flavors.
"At Oli Solivellas, we harvest the olives at their peak ripeness, before their characteristic green colour fades, watching them carefully day after day and prudently choosing the right time for picking."
- Oli Solivellas
Once harvested, the olives are processed within hours to avoid oxidation. Using a cold centrifuge system, the olive juice is extracted mechanically, without any chemical interference, ensuring the oil retains its delicate and nuanced flavors. The final product is vacuum-sealed in dark glass bottles to protect it from light and oxidation. The estate also follows integrated production practices, respecting the surrounding environment. Impressively, it takes 9 kilograms of olives to produce just 1 liter of oil, with acidity levels kept below 0.2°, well within the extra virgin standard.
Flavor Profile
Thanks to its careful blending of multiple olive varieties and meticulous production methods, Solivellas creates oils with a layered and balanced flavor. Their approach captures the essence of Mallorca's unique terroir, offering a rich spectrum of natural tastes and aromas.
Certifications and Awards
Solivellas operates under the Protected Designation of Origin Oli de Mallorca, a certification that guarantees the authenticity and quality of Mallorcan olive oil. This seal reflects the island's deep-rooted olive oil traditions. Producing around 50,000 bottles each season across their Solivellas and Oli s'Illa lines, they maintain a focus on quality and exclusivity. Stay tuned to discover more exceptional Mallorcan olive oil producers.
2. Aubocassa
Nestled in the heart of Mallorca, Aubocassa is renowned for crafting high-quality olive oils that reflect the island's distinct landscape and climate. They produce two extra virgin olive oils, each highlighting unique olive varieties and flavor profiles. Let's dive into what makes Aubocassa's oils stand out.
Olive Varieties Used
Aubocassa's signature oil is made entirely from Mallorcan Arbequina olives, grown in groves with stony soil that provides ideal conditions for Mediterranean olives.
Their second oil, L'Amo Extra Virgin Olive Oil, is a carefully balanced blend: 85% Picual, 10% Arbequina, and 5% other local Mallorcan varieties. This mix brings together the mild, buttery qualities of Arbequina with the fruity and slightly sweet notes of Picual olives.
Production Methods
Aubocassa blends tradition with modern technology to achieve exceptional quality. They closely monitor olive ripeness, ensuring the perfect harvest time. Olives are picked using a combination of umbrella and vibration systems, along with manual tools, ensuring they never touch the ground.
Aubocassa was the first in Spain to adopt the EVOOLINE temperature control system, which cools the olive paste during processing. This system halts fermentation and enzymatic activity while preserving the oil's phenolic compounds. The malaxation process is kept below 81°F (27°C) to maintain these vital elements.
Their meticulous approach ensures superior quality, though it comes at a cost. Aubocassa uses 8.5 kg of olives to produce just one liter of oil, compared to the industry average of 4.5 kg. Olives are processed within an hour of harvest, and the oil is stored in stainless steel tanks at 68°F (20°C) under a nitrogen atmosphere to prevent oxidation. Finally, the oil is bottled in dark glass to protect it from light.
Flavor Profile
The Aubocassa Premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil is known for its bold citrus notes, green herbal aromas, and silky texture.
L'Amo, on the other hand, offers a more complex experience. Its yellow-green, slightly cloudy appearance hints at its depth. The aroma features olive grove scents, artichokes, broad-leaved herbs, chicory, green pistachios, and mint. On the palate, it delivers a smooth yet robust profile, with artichoke-like bitterness and a touch of watercress spice.
Certifications and Awards
Aubocassa proudly holds the Oli de Mallorca Denomination of Origin, guaranteeing the authenticity and quality of its oils. It is also part of the prestigious Grandes Pagos de Olivar designation.
"AUBOCASSA is obtained from these olive trees: a smooth oil of enormous fruity intensity that is under the Oli de Mallorca Denomination of Origin and is part of the Grandes Pagos de Olivar."
The Aubocassa Premium oil is incredibly versatile. It shines as a finishing oil for fresh or roasted vegetables, cooked fish, and light meats. For a simple yet exquisite treat, try it raw with bread, tomato, and a pinch of salt - it’s also perfect for spoon dishes.
3. Treurer
Treurer is a family-run estate spanning 20 hectares (50 acres) in Mallorca, celebrated for its detailed "from-tree-to-table" process.
Olive Varieties Used
Treurer focuses exclusively on Arbequina olives. Originally hailing from Catalonia, this variety is now cultivated across the Spanish Levant and the Balearic Islands. Though small in size, Arbequina olives pack a flavorful punch. Treurer's estate is home to 3,000 Arbequina trees, producing oils known for their smooth, fruity profiles that complement rather than overpower delicate dishes. This careful selection of olives is the foundation of their refined and environmentally conscious production.
Production Methods
Treurer’s dedication to quality begins with an early harvest in October. This timing ensures maximum flavor and yields approximately 15 liters of oil per 100 kg (about 4 U.S. gallons) of olives. The estate employs eco-friendly harvesting practices, swiftly transporting olives to their modern mill within an hour of picking.
Owner Miguel Miralles Sastre explains their approach:
"Our foremost aim is to cultivate healthy, robust trees that yield exceptional fruit, the foundation of our olive oil. Deficit irrigation precisely controls water supply, inducing mild stress that enhances oil quality."
Once extracted, the oil is stored in nitrogen-sealed stainless steel tanks at a constant temperature to prevent oxidation. Treurer also embraces sustainability by converting olive pomace into compost, promoting a circular economy.
Flavor Profile
Treurer’s Arbequina oil offers a well-rounded flavor with vibrant aromatic intensity and a harmonious balance of bitterness and spiciness. Its acidity is impressively low, at just 0.10%. The oil boasts a layered aroma featuring hints of tomato, green grass, almond, artichoke, fennel, and banana. On the palate, it delivers a fruity-peppery taste with subtle bitterness and undertones of almonds, nuts, and fennel.
Sastre describes the oil’s character:
"Our olive oil is distinguished by its balanced flavor profile, featuring intense fruitiness and moderate spiciness and bitterness. Its aromatic notes evoke tomato, freshly cut grass, almond, green apple, artichoke, fennel and green banana."
This versatility makes Treurer oil suitable for a variety of culinary uses. It shines in raw applications like salads and cheese garnishes, performs well in high-temperature cooking, and even serves as a butter substitute for baking and confectionery.
Certifications and Awards
Treurer has gained international acclaim, winning a Gold Award at the NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition. This recognition has opened new doors in global markets.
Reflecting on the achievement, Sastre shared:
"This season has been better in terms of production than the previous one. Even if it did not rain that much, it did in the most important moments for the olive trees. As for the quality, it is extraordinary."
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4. Son Catiu
Son Catiu is a standout in Mallorca's olive oil scene. Established in 2008, it has become the island's top producer of extra virgin olive oil under the prestigious Denominación de Origen "Oli de Mallorca" label. Combining traditional techniques with modern precision, Son Catiu delivers oils that reflect both heritage and innovation.
Olive Varieties Used
The mill’s signature oil is crafted from a blend of Arbequina and Picual olives [39,40]. Arbequina brings a fruity, mild flavor, while Picual adds intensity and depth. Together, they create a complex oil that’s both flavorful and versatile [42,43]. Most of the olives come from carefully selected farms across Mallorca, with the mill’s owners also cultivating their own groves to maintain consistent quality.
Production Methods
Son Catiu takes pride in its meticulous production process. The olives, handpicked to ensure optimal quality, are processed the same day to preserve freshness. The oil is extracted mechanically without any chemicals, and temperatures are strictly kept below 27°C (81°F) during the process [39,41,42]. This approach minimizes oxidation and locks in the flavors and nutrients, setting a high standard for Mallorcan olive oil.
Flavor Profile
Son Catiu offers three main varieties: a pure Picual, a pure Arbequina, and a balanced blend. The coupage delivers a smooth, approachable oil with hints of green grass and ripe tomatoes, perfect for salads, grilled meats, and fish. The pure Picual, on the other hand, is bold and robust, featuring flavors like artichoke, fig, and fresh grass - an excellent choice for dishes that call for a stronger olive oil. A 500 mL bottle typically costs between $17.00 and $25.00, bringing high-quality Mallorcan olive oil to home kitchens.
5. Es Roquissar
Es Roquissar embodies the essence of Mallorca's Tramuntana mountains. This olive oil comes from the Son Moragues estate, a sprawling 100-hectare (about 247-acre) property with over 10,000 century-old, organic olive trees. It’s a product steeped in history and tradition.
Olive Varieties Used
Es Roquissar is crafted exclusively from Mallorquina olives, a variety native to Mallorca and the island's most prominent. Known for their aromatic and fruity qualities, these olives offer subtle hints of almond, apple, and ripe tomato. Grown at high altitudes on steep, dry stone terraces, the olives develop a unique character. Traditional sheep grazing is used to manage wild shoots, further contributing to the oil’s distinctive qualities.
Production Methods
The production of Es Roquissar honors age-old methods that highlight the unique traits of the Mallorquina olives. During harvest, nets are placed beneath the trees while workers gently tap the branches with long sticks to collect the fruit. The olives are harvested later than those grown on flatter terrain, resulting in a smoother flavor and slightly higher acidity. To ensure freshness, the olives are milled immediately after picking, and a cold-pressing process is used to preserve their natural flavors and nutrients.
Flavor Profile
Es Roquissar offers a rich and layered flavor that captures the essence of the Tramuntana region. Its soft green color is paired with medium to strong green fruitiness. Expect notes of almond, apple, and a touch of banana, accented by hints of green grass and olive leaf. The balanced taste includes mild bitterness, a light spiciness, and a lingering almond finish, making it an ideal choice for traditional Mallorcan "pa amb oli".
A 500 mL (about 17 fl oz) tin of Es Roquissar Organic extra virgin olive oil D.O. is priced at $32.50, reflecting its premium quality and connection to the Tramuntana heritage. In years of abundant harvest, some olive trees on the estate can yield up to 66 pounds (30 kilos) of olives - nearly twice the typical output.
Quick Comparison Chart
Here's a detailed look at Mallorca's top five olive oils, showcasing their unique qualities and production techniques:
| Olive Oil | Olive Varieties | Production Methods | Flavor Profile | Awards |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Solivellas | Arbequina and Picual | Traditional cold-pressing with modern temperature control | A complex mix of fruity Arbequina notes and spicy Picual tones | Oli de Mallorca D.O. certification |
| Aubocassa | Arbequina only | Artisanal production focused on single-variety purity | Delicate green fruit flavor with a smooth finish | D.O. certification |
| Treurer | Arbequina only | Medium-intensity extraction to retain natural compounds | Pure Arbequina character with green fruit notes and balanced intensity | 2024 Gold Award at NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition |
| Son Catiu | Picual, Arbequina, and coupage (blend) | Offers both single-variety and blended options | Flavors range from spicy Picual to smooth Arbequina with balanced blends | D.O. certification |
| Es Roquissar | Mallorquina only | Traditional mountain harvesting with immediate cold-pressing | Smooth, rich, and highlighted by almond sweetness | D.O. certification |
In the 2023–2024 season, Mallorca produced an impressive 487,716 liters of extra virgin olive oil. This achievement reflects the island's dedication to quality and its commitment to maintaining high standards. The Oli de Mallorca certification ensures that only Mallorquina, Arbequina, and Picual olives are used in production. Each variety brings something special: Mallorquina offers smooth almond notes, Arbequina adds green fruit accents, and Picual delivers a spicy kick.
The harvest season, spanning October to January, blends tradition with innovation. Many producers rely on hand-harvesting techniques combined with modern cold-pressing methods, which help preserve the oils' natural compounds and enhance their fruity, intense flavors. This mix of old and new methods highlights Mallorca's dedication to both tradition and quality.
"Obtaining a Gold Award at the NYIOOC is a great success for our olive oil, as it recognizes the effort made during a whole year to obtain world-class olive oil."
– Miguel Miralles, owner of Treurer
Final Thoughts
Mallorca’s olive oil heritage, rooted in centuries of tradition, offers American food lovers a chance to experience premium oils that capture the essence of Mediterranean craftsmanship.
The five producers featured here strike a balance between age-old techniques and modern advancements, showcasing the unique profiles of the island’s signature olive varieties: Mallorquina, Arbequina, and Picual. Each bottle tells a story of dedication and expertise, bringing the flavors of Mallorca to life.
For American buyers, these oils represent more than just a culinary choice - they embody a connection to authenticity and tradition. As Miguel Miralles, CEO of Treurer, explains:
"The market is evolving toward a greater appreciation for quality over quantity. Consumers are becoming more informed and are looking for authentic, sustainable products with a story behind them".
This dedication to quality aligns seamlessly with the growing trend in the U.S. for health-conscious and sustainably produced foods. Mallorcan extra virgin olive oils not only deliver rich, vibrant flavors but also cater to the increasing demand for products that prioritize both health benefits and environmental responsibility.
Whether you’re drizzling Treurer’s oil over a fresh salad or preparing pa amb oli with Son Catiu’s blend, these oils bring a taste of Mallorca to your kitchen. They are a celebration of the island’s artistry and innovation, offering a timeless connection between tradition and modern culinary excellence.
FAQs
What sets Mallorca's olive oils apart from other Mediterranean varieties?
Mallorca's olive oils are celebrated for their distinctive taste - a harmonious blend of gentle acidity, a touch of bitterness, and a hint of sweetness. This flavor profile is deeply influenced by the island's unique climate, fertile soil, and time-honored farming traditions.
Produced with meticulous attention to detail, these oils are extracted using mechanical methods, ensuring the olives' quality remains intact during harvest at their prime. Many of these oils proudly bear the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) label, a mark that not only guarantees their authenticity but also underscores their deep connection to Mallorca's agricultural legacy.
How do Mallorcan olive oil producers create such unique flavors and high-quality oils?
Mallorcan olive oil producers take great care in crafting their oils, sticking to methods that ensure the flavor and character of the olives shine through. Harvesting is often done by hand, and the olives are processed within 24 hours to lock in their freshness and preserve the best possible taste. By using mechanical extraction methods - without heat or chemicals - they protect the oils' natural fruity flavors and retain important nutrients.
Some producers go a step further by leaving their oils unfiltered. This approach gives the oil a richer texture and a more pronounced, vibrant flavor. These thoughtful practices result in olive oils that are not just flavorful but also widely praised for their high quality.
What dishes or cooking methods are best suited for Mallorcan olive oils?
Mallorcan olive oils are a fantastic way to add depth and character to both traditional and everyday dishes. They take center stage in classics like pa amb oli (bread with olive oil) and work beautifully for frying, roasting, and grilling, thanks to their bold flavor and exceptional quality. Beyond that, they’re perfect for salad dressings, marinades, or dipping sauces, effortlessly elevating simple meals or complementing more elaborate culinary creations.
Whether you’re crafting a hearty Mediterranean favorite or trying something new in the kitchen, the rich, distinctive flavors of Mallorcan olive oils infuse your cooking with an authentic and refined touch.