Press release.
After officially acquiring a position for South Africa on the world olive oil map, Willow Creek is already garnering points in order to maintain their position in 2015.Both extra virgin olive oils they entered in the 17th L’Orciolo d’Oro competition in Italy, was awarded Grand Mention, their Directors’ Reserve in the category for Intensely Fruity olive oils, and their Estate Blend in the Lightly Fruity category. Being the first international olive oil competition – held annually since 1999 –L’Orciolo d’Oro is regarded as one of the most prestigious platforms from which to receive an accolade or two.
On another continent the Directors’ Reserve also staked its claim at the 2015 New York International Olive Oil Competition by winning a Gold Medal. Competing against a record number of 671 olive oils from 25 countries, Willow Creek proudly flew South Africa’s flag by becoming SA’s only producer to earn their inclusion in the list of ‘The World’s Best Olive Oils 2015’.
Willow Creek Olive Estate was also graced with no less than 94% in FlosOlei 2015, an Italian-based competition run by the well-known olive oil taster Marco Oreggia. During this competition expert and officially enrolled tasters representing the main olive growing regions in Italy, annually put hundreds of olive oils from around the world through their paces during rigid tastings to rate them according to quality.
The Directors’ Reserve is Willow Creek’s flagship product – an ultra-premium robust olive oil where the dominant cultivars of Coratina and Frantoio are carefully fused to create this powerful composition. Expect complex aromas of tomato vines and artichokes, followed by nuances of rocket, salad herbs and a lingering nuttiness. Experts agree that the satisfying bitterness associated with a robust olive oil and the tingling pungency provide the prefect structure in balance with the distinct flavour.
Willow Creek’s range of products are available at delis and retailers including Woolworths, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Food Lover’s Market, Spar, Makro and Montague Dried Fruit & Nuts. They also have a tasting room and shop on the estate that are open to the public, as well as a nursery that sells olive trees.