Extra virgin olive oil is a type of oil that is obtained from the first cold pressing of ripe olives. This means that the oil is extracted without the use of heat or chemicals, preserving its natural flavor and health benefits.

Extra virgin olive oil is considered the highest quality olive oil, with a free acidity level of 0.8% or less. It is also required to have a fruity taste and no defects.

The oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are beneficial for heart health, and contains high levels of antioxidants, such as polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties and provide other health benefits. Many people shop our selection of high quality extra virgin olive oil to take as a daily supplement.

When selecting extra virgin olive oil, consider the following:

• Look for the "extra virgin" designation: This ensures that the oil has been extracted without the use of heat or chemicals and is of the highest quality.
• Ask about the harvest date: Fresh oil is essential for quality. Choose oil with a harvest date that is within the last year.
• Taste before buying (that’s where we come in!) If possible, taste the oil before purchasing to ensure that it has a fruity taste and no defects.
• Seek out information about the type of olives used and the region where the olives were grown. You will learn a lot about the different types of olives that you enjoy the flavour of.
• Consider price. While a high price does not necessarily guarantee quality, a low price may indicate a lower quality oil.

Olive oil is a blend of refined and virgin oils, whereas extra virgin olive oil is made from pure, cold-pressed olives and has not been chemically or heat treated.

Extra virgin olive oil is considered the highest quality and has a fruity taste, low acidity, and no defects. It is also the most expensive type of olive oil.

Olive oil is a lower quality oil that may have been processed using chemicals and heat, affecting its flavor and health benefits. It has a milder taste and higher acidity than extra virgin olive oil.

It is important to note that there are also lower grades of olive oil such as "pure," "light," or "extra light," which may contain refined oils and have even less flavor and health benefits than regular olive oil.

At the beginning of the milling process when the olive is removed from the tree, the fruits or herbs are crushed with the freshly picked olives which gives you that infused natural flavour.

Some of the notable benefits of cooking with extra virgin olive oil include but are not limited to,

• Healthy cooking option as it is rich in monounsaturated fats
• High smoke point makes it suitable for high temperature cooking
• Stable at high temperatures and does not break down easily, preserving its health benefits
• Can help preserve the nutrients in food due to its antioxidant properties. 

Additionally, there are several specific health benefits associated with using extra virgin olive oil which include, 

• Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats
• Antioxidant properties due to high levels of polyphenols
• May reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke
• May improve gut health and reduce inflammation
• May have anti-cancer properties
• May improve brain function and decrease the risk of depression and Alzheimer's disease
• May help with weight management by promoting feelings of fullness

Yes, extra virgin olive oil can be used for frying food. It has a high smoke point (around 410°F) which makes it suitable for high temperature cooking.

We recommend consuming your olive oil within a year or so of purchase as it loses its health benefits over time, although the product itself does not in fact expire if it’s kept in a cool dark place. 

Balsamic vinegar is best consumed within a few years of purchase date.

Extra virgin olive oil is of high quality if it meets the following criteria:

• It is made from pure, cold-pressed olives, without the use of any chemicals or solvents.
• It has a fruity aroma and a slightly bitter and pungent flavor.
• The acidity level is less than 0.8%, as higher levels indicate that the oil is of poor quality and has been refined or blended with other oils.
• It has not been subjected to high heat during production, as heat can damage the oil and affect its flavor and nutritional value.
• The oil has been bottled in dark glass to protect it from light and air, which can cause oxidation and spoilage.

Note: It is also important to keep the oil stored in a cool and dark place, away from light and heat to maintain its quality.

Balsamic vinegar is made from a reduction of cooked Lambrusco or Trebbiano grapes and then aged for a minimum of 12 years in a series of barrels made from different types of wood. The aging process results in a thick, syrupy liquid with a distinct, sweet and sour flavor.

Both of these products are produced in the same way with one main difference; white balsamic vinegar is cooked at a lower temperature, which means the fruit sugars do not caramelize during the process and the end result is a lighter slightly more acidic vinegar. Dark balsamic vinegar is more dense and viscous and the flavour will be more intense.

• Juice extraction: The juice of the Trebbiano grapes is extracted and then cooked down to a syrup.
• Fermentation: The syrup undergoes a slow fermentation process, where natural yeasts convert the sugar into alcohol.
• Aging: The vinegar is then aged in a series of wooden barrels made of different types of wood such as oak, chestnut, cherry, ash, and mulberry, to give it its unique flavor. The aging process can take anywhere from 12 to 25 years.
• Concentration: Over time, the vinegar slowly loses moisture and becomes thicker and more concentrated.
• Blending: The vinegar from each barrel is then blended to create the final product.

Balsamic vinegar and regular vinegar differ in the following ways:

• Ingredients: Balsamic vinegar is made from a reduction of cooked white Trebbiano grape juice, while regular vinegar is made from diluted alcoholic liquids such as wine, cider, or malt.
• Flavor: Balsamic vinegar has a distinct, sweet and sour flavor due to its long aging process, while regular vinegar has a sharp and tangy flavor.
• Color: Balsamic vinegar has a dark, rich color, while regular vinegar can range from clear to light brown.
• Consistency: Balsamic vinegar has a thick, syrupy consistency, while regular vinegar is thin and watery.
• Uses: Balsamic vinegar is often used as a finishing sauce or condiment, while regular vinegar is commonly used in salad dressings, marinades, and as a cooking ingredient.
• Price: Balsamic vinegar can be more expensive due to its longer aging process and the use of high-quality ingredients, while regular vinegar is often less expensive.

• Salad dressing: We love using balsamic vinegar as a base for our salad dressings. Simply whisk it together with some extra virgin olive oil, dijon mustard, and honey for a sweet and tangy dressing that elevates any salad.
• Grilled meats: Balsamic vinegar makes for an excellent marinade for grilled meats such as chicken, steak, or pork. The sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with the smoky char from the grill.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasting vegetables in the oven with balsamic vinegar adds depth and flavor to your favorite side dishes. Try drizzling some over Brussels sprouts, carrots, or beets for a delicious twist on traditional roasted vegetables.
• Glaze: Balsamic vinegar can be reduced down to a syrupy glaze that pairs well with a variety of dishes. Drizzle it over grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or even fresh fruit for a touch of sweetness.
• Pasta sauce: Balsamic vinegar can add a tangy and sweet flavor to pasta sauces. Try whisking it together with olive oil, garlic, and crushed tomatoes for a delicious and easy pasta sauce.

Balsamic vinegar is often acknowledged for its potential health benefits, including:

• Antioxidants: Balsamic vinegar contains antioxidants that can help to protect against damage from free radicals and potentially lower the risk of certain diseases.
• Heart health: Some studies suggest that balsamic vinegar may have cholesterol-lowering properties and may help to improve heart health by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Blood sugar control: Balsamic vinegar has been shown to have a modest effect on blood sugar levels, making it a potential tool for people with type 2 diabetes to manage their blood sugar levels.
• Weight management: Balsamic vinegar has been shown to reduce body weight and fat mass, potentially making it a helpful addition to a weight loss diet.
• Gut health: Balsamic vinegar has been shown to improve gut health by increasing the growth of beneficial gut bacteria.

• Room temperature: Store balsamic vinegar at room temperature, away from heat, light, and moisture. Avoid storing it near the stove or in direct sunlight.
• Dark glass bottle: Balsamic vinegar should be stored in a dark glass bottle, which helps to protect it from light and preserve its flavor.
• Tightly sealed: Make sure the bottle is tightly sealed to prevent air from getting in, which can cause the vinegar to spoil or lose its flavor.
• Use within 3 years: Balsamic vinegar has a relatively long shelf life, but for best quality and flavor, it's recommended to use it within 2 years of opening the bottle.

All of the extra virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegars we carry are vegan friendly and gluten free! We alo carry other products in store that are locally made that are as well.

If you’re not quite sure which size is right for you, refer to our size guides. They’re located underneath the available sizes for each of our products.

We completely get it, we change our minds too! While we wish could, once an order is placed, we are unable to alter or cancel it at this time. We hope to have a cancellation window one day in the future.

Should the item(s) not work out, make sure to exchange for a preferred style or return for a refund. As a reminder, domestic return shipping is free.

Once your order is placed, you will receive a confirmation email letting you know that our fulfillment team has received your order. Once your order is fulfilled, you will receive an email notification with your tracking information. Shipping fees are non-refundable in the case of returns.

Yes, we ship all over the world. Shipping costs will apply, and will be added at checkout.