Description
Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil is obtained from the Leccino, Frantoio and Dritta olive varieties, which must make up at least 75% of the groves. The remaining 25% can be made up of other varieties, such as Tortiglione, Carboncella and Castiglionese.
Production Area
The production and processing area of Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil is either entirely or partly within numerous municipalities in the Province of Teramo, in the Abruzzo region.
Production Method
The olives must be harvested directly from the tree, either by hand or mechanically, between the first ripening of the olives and December 10th of each year. The olives must be kept in a cool dry place, in rigid, ventilated containers, until they are milled, which must take place within two days of the harvest. There is a set maximum duration and temperature for the crushing process, which is 30 minutes and 27 °C, respectively.
Appearance and Flavour
Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil is yellowish green in colour; it has a mild fruity smell and flavour, with hints of bitterness and piquancy.
History
The origins of olive oil production in the Province of Teramo date back to the 10th century BC. However, it was only during the 3rd century BC that it became diffused, thanks to the Romans. Since then, it has gone through periods of growth and decline, although its importance in the production area of Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO has remained stable.
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 at a temperature between 14 and 18 °C, away from heat sources and other foods that emit strong odours. It should be consumed within 4-6 months of pressing to fully appreciate its flavour. Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil is an ideal condiment for fairly robust flavoured pasta and meat dishes.
Marketing
The product is marketed as Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil. It is sold in bottles or recipients of no more than 5 litres. The label must bear the indication Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane, followed by the wording Protected Designation of Origin (PDO), the European symbol and the production year. The specific guarantee mark, which consists of a unique alphanumeric code that ensures the traceability of the product, must be on the packaging.
Distinctive Features
Pretuziano delle Colline Teramane PDO extra virgin olive oil is characterised by a maximum acidity of 0.5 g per 100 g of oil, a panel test result higher than 6.5, and a polyphenol level that is higher than 120 ppm.
