The best thing about July, is that the new season olive oil is released in Australia. 

The new season oils – sometimes called ‘early harvest’ are the first batch of oil produced from the season's harvest.  This oil has a wonderfully fresh, vibrant flavour and typically higher levels of polyphenols compared to the oils produced later in the season.  The presence of the polyphenols mean a more robust, peppery and grassy flavour.  It also makes this oil higher in antioxidants with their own health benefits.  It also tends to be greener in colour. 

We range several olive oils all the time and we think they are all fabulous in their own right, and worthy of your pantry: 

One of our standout products, and a brand we have consistently stocked since 2005, is the Coriole Extra Virgin Olive Oil from South Australia. This oil, known for its wonderful wines, is a testament to the perfect climate of South Australia for olive oil production, making it a truly special product. 

The Coriole oil has really clean, floral notes with notes of fresh cut grass.  It has a really rich, creamy mouthfeel, with the fruit and a little bitterness perfectly balanced.  There is a little pepper, but it is not aggressive – so still very versatile.  It is lovely in a cake or a dessert application.

Also from South Australia, the Joseph First Run EVOO is a standout product that sets the benchmark for olive oil in Australia. Its unique flavour profile makes it a must-have for any kitchen.

The 2024 season has notes of green bananas and the distinctive cut grass of an early olive oil. This one finishes with a lingering pepper flavour. It's one to use with earthy flavours—wonderful to drizzle on a warm beetroot and goat's cheese salad or to finish a simple pasta dish. Any application that would make the complexity shine.

Our Mount Zero Early Harvest Picual EVOO from Victoria is an oil made with olives picked nearly a month early to maximise the early flavours.  It has an intense aroma of crushed tomato or strawberry leaves, there are peppery herbs, horseradish and a slight bitterness that lingers.  This one is best as a simple salad dressing, finishing a beef dish, or anything warm that will release the incredible aromas of this oil. 

Like all oils, the early harvest oils should be stored in dark glass in the pantry – they are best in the dark and cool. Don’t decant these.  And make sure you use them!  Don’t save them for ‘best’.  They are ‘best’ when fresh.  And let’s face it - you are the best!