Crete

Meet the Koroneiki Olive: The Jewel of Crete

Discover the Koroneiki olive, the small yet powerful fruit behind Greece’s finest extra virgin olive oils.

A Small Olive with a Big Reputation

Among the many olive varieties cultivated worldwide, the Koroneiki olive stands out as a true gem, especially on the sun-soaked island of Crete. Despite its small size, this olive packs a remarkable punch when it comes to oil quality, flavor, and nutritional value. Revered by olive oil connoisseurs and producers alike, Koroneiki olives are the backbone of some of Greece’s most celebrated extra virgin olive oils, including VIOS.

Why Koroneiki Olives Are So Special

Koroneiki olives are unique in several important ways. First, their small size contradict their exceptional oil content, often surpassing that of larger olive varieties. The oil itself is renowned for its vibrant, fruity aroma, peppery finish, and well-balanced bitterness, hallmarks of high-quality extra virgin olive oil.

What truly sets Koroneiki olives apart is their high concentration of polyphenols and antioxidants. These compounds not only contribute to the oil’s complex flavor profile but also provide powerful health benefits, from supporting heart health to reducing inflammation.

Growing Conditions on Crete

Crete’s climate and landscape are perfectly suited for cultivating Koroneiki olives. The island’s hot, dry summers and mild winters, combined with rocky, mineral-rich soils, create an environment that stresses the olive trees just enough to produce fruit with intense flavors and nutritional richness.

The olives are typically harvested by hand at just the right moment to ensure peak ripeness and maximum quality. This careful attention to timing helps preserve the delicate balance of flavor and nutrients in the oil.

Key Characteristics of Koroneiki Olive Oil

Here are the main qualities that make Koroneiki olive oil stand out:

  • High polyphenol content: Offers potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
  • Robust flavor: Fruity, grassy, with a peppery bite that tingles the throat.
  • Exceptional stability: Resistant to oxidation, making it ideal for both raw use and gentle cooking.
  • Versatility: Perfect for cooking, dressings, and finishing dishes, enhancing a wide range of culinary creations.

Experience Koroneiki Olive Oil with VIOS

At VIOS, we proudly source Koroneiki olives grown on Crete’s fertile lands, harvested at their peak to capture all the nuanced flavors and health benefits. Our cold-pressed process ensures that the oil you enjoy retains every drop of this jewel’s natural goodness.

Discover the difference that the Koroneiki olive makes, where tradition, nature, and quality come together in every bottle.

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