Description
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Ravece olive variety, which must make up at least 60% of the oil; no more than 40%, individually or combined, of the Ogliarola, Marinese, Olivella, Ruveia and Vigna della Corte varieties; no more than 10% of the Leccino and Frantoio varieties.
Production Area
The production area of Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil is within numerous municipalities in the Province of Avellino, in the Campania region.
Production Method
The olives are harvested either by hand or mechanically, by December 31st, on the condition that the drupes do not remain on the ground. Nets and other gathering methods are permitted, but olives that have fallen naturally either on the ground or in permanent nets may not be collected. Milling must take place within 48 hours of harvesting. An organic method can be used.
Appearance and Flavour
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil ranges from straw-yellow to green in colour, varying in intensity, with clear aromatic hints of tomato and grass, and a fruity, bitter piquant flavour.
History
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil boasts ancient origins. In fact, the olive groves in this area date back to Roman times. Since the 16th century, Ravece, the main olive variety used to produce the oil, has been cited in various different documents: in Platea Urbis et foranea by Bishop Diomede Carafa (1517); in a written work by Bishop Donato de Laurentiis dating back to 1580. The cultivation of the Ravece olive variety was further developed during the 19th century, as documented by Father Nicola Flammia (1843-1917).
Gastronomy
Extra virgin olive oil is highly perishable and must be stored correctly in order to maintain its organoleptic properties. It should therefore be kept in a cool, dark place, away from sources of heat or light, at a temperature of between 14 and 18 °C. It should be consumed within 4-6 months of pressing. Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil pairs well with many meat and vegetable-based dishes: grilled meats, soups and minestrone, as well as boiled and grilled vegetables, salads and bruschetta.
Marketing
The product is marketed as Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil. It is sold in dark glass, ceramic and enamelled terracotta bottles, or tin plate recipients of no more than 5 litres, sealed and labelled, as well as in 10 ml single-dose sachets made of suitable materials. The label must bear the product logo.
Distinctive Features
Irpinia - Colline dell’Ufita PDO extra virgin olive oil boasts unusual characteristics given to the microclimate, soil, and cultivation techniques that have been passed down in the production area for centuries, as well as to the Ravece olive variety.
