Pugliese oils get little credit on the international oil scene. The region's reputation is that of a producer of affordable bulk oils. But hidden in the shadows of the huge industrial producers are artisans like the Pellegrino family. I visited their farm a couple of years ago, and I keep coming back to their full-flavored extra virgin olive oil again and again. There's a nose tingling grassiness that adds a depth of flavor to food. It's especially good in spicy pasta dishes or any place you want a really robust olive flavor.
Extra virgin olive oil
Coratina olives
Rustic and fruity flavors
Harvested in fall 2022, this oil starts with robust green vegetal flavors from the start, like biting into fresh arugula. The finish has a peppery spice, but not quite as strong or lingering as previous harvests.