Terra d'Otranto (extra-virgin olive oil) facts for kids
The extra-virgin olive oil Terra d'Otranto is a special kind of olive oil made in a region of southern Italy. It gets its name from the historical area called Terra d'Otranto. This oil is mostly made from two types of olives: Cellina di Nardò and Ogliarola. At least 60% of the oil comes from these two types, mixed with other local olives. This oil is recognized as a PDO product, which means its quality and features are linked to where it's made.
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How Olive Oil Started Here
People have been growing olive trees in the Terra d'Otranto area for a very long time. The ancient Greeks and Phoenicians were the first to bring olive cultivation here. After a quiet period in the Middle Ages, a group of monks called the Basilian monks helped restart the olive oil business. They made it a very important product for the region.
Where is Terra d'Otranto Olive Oil Made?
This special olive oil is produced in a beautiful area between two seas: the Ionian Sea and the Adriatic Sea. This region includes parts of the Murge hills in the Taranto area and the Serre hills near Lecce.
The oil is made in all the towns and villages of the Lecce province. It's also produced in the eastern part of the Taranto province and in several towns in the Brindisi province. Some of these towns include Cellino San Marco, Erchie, Francavilla Fontana, Latiano, Mesagne, Oria, San Donaci, San Pancrazio Salentino, San Pietro Vernotico, Torchiarolo, and Torre Santa Susanna. The land here is mostly made of limestone, and the highest point where olives grow is about 517 meters (about 1,700 feet) above sea level.
What Makes This Olive Oil Special?
The Terra d'Otranto extra-virgin olive oil has a light yellow color with hints of green. When you taste it, you'll notice a fruity flavor. It also has a slightly bitter and spicy taste, which makes it unique. This oil is great for many dishes. It tastes wonderful with pasta, vegetables, and beans. You can also use it to add flavor to main courses like meat or fish.
Who Protects This Oil?
The "Consorzio tutela olio DOP Terra d'Otranto" in Lecce is a group that works to protect and promote this special olive oil. They make sure the oil is made correctly and keeps its high quality, following the rules for PDO products.
