Local olive oil shines in Italy

Olive oils from ten countries - including classical olive oil producers like Italy, Spain and Greece, as well as new world producers Australia and Argentina - were entered in the competition and judged by a panel of accredited olive oil tasters from all over Italy. It was the tenth successive competition organised by the renowned Enohobby Club with the full support of the Italian department of agriculture.

The estate's accomplishment follows on a gold medal for their Directors' Reserve at last year's Los Angeles International Extra Virgin Olive Oil Competition, as well as an honourable mention at the Mastri Oleari and L'Orciolo d'Oro olive oil competitions in Italy.

Louise Rabie from Willow Creek in the Nuy Valley says the estate's terroir plays a defining role in the quality of their oils. The Directors' Reserve was blended from Coratina and Frantoio cultivars. It has a medium fruity intensity and complex aromas of tomato vines, rocket leaves and asparagus are finished with a pleasant walnut taste on the palate.

The Extra Virgin is a delicate oil with the flavour of freshly cut grass and subtle notes of apple and almonds. This all-rounder is blended from Frantoio, Leccino and Mission.

The Willow Creek range of extra virgin olive oils, olives, tapenade and olive pesto is available from major retailers and delicatessens country wide.