Sadly, most people have never tried a truly great extra virgin olive oil. If you have been lucky enough to travel to an olive growing region, then maybe you have. This extra virgin, available through www.latienda.com, is one of these truly great oils. It comes from a small hacienda run by the Vano family in the south of Spain, right outside of Jaen (the real olive capital of the world–no, Italy doesn’t come close). I really love both varieties of this–the picual is more intense and powerful,  while the arbequina, still very robust, tastes verdant and fruity. Both have an intense, green taste and really great body–-these oils are harvested early, which contributes to their greenness and full flavor. Early pressing produces less but better tasting olive oil. I can’t think of any sad supermarket brand that comes even close to these oils. Even most gourmet store extra virgins, which often come  with a much higher price tag, cannot compare.  This oil pours beautifully on the plate for dipping with bread and is amazing when used to finish hot soup.

One taste and you will know. Order a bottle or both varietals together at www.latienda.com