Australian extra-virgin olive oils have stunned the competition in a comprehensive blind taste test, with several local brands outshining traditional European imports. The shock results, released by Australian consumer advocacy group Choice, saw seven Australian-produced oils score 76% or higher – exceeding their international counterparts.
Italian brand Monini Classico claimed top spot with an impressive 88% score, but Australian Cobram Extra Virgin Classic took third place with a respectable 80%. Tasters praised its “fruity herbaceous aromas” and “buttery” mouthfeel, despite the oil being priced at around £13.50 (AUD$25).
The rigorous testing process, conducted by NSW Department of Primary Industries laboratories, assessed oils based on purity, freshness, fruitiness and pungency. Choice's Pru Engel noted the growing demand for local products and the strong reputation Australian olive oil makers have built.
Interestingly, some of the cheapest oils failed to impress, with Aldi Oh So Natural Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil scoring a disappointing 60%. Chris Barnes, Choice's product review manager, explained that professional taste testing involves stringent standards, including chemical and sensory perception tests to identify fruitiness, pungency and peppery characteristics.
For consumers looking to get the most out of their olive oil, Engel advises choosing darker bottles to protect against light degradation, storing in a cool, dark place – such as a pantry – rather than the fridge. Barnes also warns against judging an oil's quality by its colour alone, suggesting that taste and mouthfeel are more reliable indicators.
Source: Choice