Willow Creek Olive Estate, the only local olive oil producer to gain a place on the list, is currently in 20th position, compared to 33rd in the previous year. Willow Creek Directors' Reserve was awarded the title of 50th best extra virgin olive oil in the world (compared to 95th place in the previous year).
The Top 100 lists for olive oils and producers, compiled by the internationally respected World Ranking EVOO, takes into account the number of awards won in the world's main competitions. Every competition is weighted, based on its global importance, the number of entries it draws, the number of participating countries, as well as the impact it has on consumers.
Willow Creek's Directors' Reserve, a robust olive oil with complex aromas of tomato vines and artichokes, followed by nuances of rocket, salad herbs and a lingering nuttiness, was honoured with awards from numerous highly acclaimed competitions, including Prestige Gold at the Olivinus and Terra Olivo Mediterranean International olive competitions; a Gold Medal at the New York International competition; Special Mentions at the Italian L'Orciolo d'Oro and the Sol D'Oro Southern Hemisphere competitions, and Gold at the SA Olive Awards.
"It is important that we pitch our olive oil against the best the world has to offer, so that we can confidently ensure our consumers of our exceptional quality," said Louise Rabie, brand manager of Willow Creek. "But, while awards serve to affirm the quality of our products, the greatest reward comes from sharing our passion with olive oil lovers the world over."
Willow Creek's range of products is available at delis and retailers, including Woolworths, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Food Lover's Market, Spar, Makro, Game and Montague Dried Fruit & Nuts. It also has a tasting room and shop on the estate that is open to the public, as well as a nursery that sells olive trees.
For more information, go to www.willowcreek.co.za or contact Willow Creek on +27 (0) 23 342 5793 or at az.oc.keercwolliw@ofni.
