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As a Mediterranean country, Croatia is very well known for producing the coveted, high-quality liquid gold ― extra-virgin olive oil. Many regions in Croatia are proud of their olive oil production. Still, a few micro-locations have been protected on a European level and recognized for their authenticity.
The EU protects extra-virgin olive oil
Olive groves are a sight for sore eyes that you can see all over the Island of Krk. It's hard to find a family that doesn't have a few olive trees of their own! After centuries of perfecting their craft, Krk's olive oil makers have recognized that their tradition and dedication to the olive tree and the process of oil extraction are worth preserving. Due to their efforts, in 2016, the EU recognized Krk's extra virgin olive oil and protected it with the designation of origin. Today, olive oil production in Krk is strictly regulated, and the island has become a popular destination for tourists interested in learning a thing or two about the trade trick.
Extra virgin olive oil from Krk bears a logo that confirms it is a product with a protected designation of origin. The environment and tradition have shaped its distinctive characteristics, making it different from olive oils produced elsewhere. Krk olive oil is made solely from local olive varieties, like Plominka, Lošinjka, and Drobnica. The extra-virgin extraction method preserves extracted oil, and as a result, the product is rich in color and antioxidants. During the extraction process, the temperature is consistently below 27 degrees, so most of the oil's nutritional value stays intact.
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Harvesting Olives, the First Step Towards Liquid Gold!
The olive harvest takes place in the autumn, from October to December, and it is a family affair ― you need a lot of hands to pick the olives off branches, as it is done manually!
If harvesting olives sounds like great fun to you, I can testify that it is! ― you'll be delighted to find out that some olive oil makers are waiting for you to join them this autumn! You can also participate in the workshops and oil-tasting events held throughout autumn as a part of the annual manifestation Days of Olives. And if you like competitions, visit Krk in spring when the Drobnica fest is held: all olive oil makers of Krk gather around and submit their olive oils to the test to see which one is the best!
Where to Buy Local Olive Oil on Krk?
You can buy local olive oil almost everywhere ― at souvenir shops, restaurants, or the olive oil makers who produce them. Educational and interactive tours are also available to those interested in the ins and outs of olive oil production. Walk through the magnificent olive groves and feast on excellent local olive oil, cheese, and prosciutto!
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