As the leaves begin to fall in Italy and the air takes on a crisp, autumnal chill, a time-honoured tradition begins to unfold in olive groves across the country. From the sun-soaked hills of Tuscany to the ancient olive trees of Puglia, a unique and highly anticipated product makes its appearance: the Novello Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
Novello, meaning "new" in Italian, refers to the first olive oil of the season. It is typically harvested in October, when olives are still young and unripe with a dark green colour and only a beginning of purple. This results in an oil that is fresh, intensely aromatic, and deeply flavoured—a true representation of Italy’s diverse terroir with an intensely fresh flavour. Italian families eagerly await this seasonal delicacy, as it holds a special place in their hearts and kitchens, often making its grand debut on tables leading up to the Christmas season.
A Bold, Bright Flavour Profile
What sets Novello apart from regular extra virgin olive oil is its distinct taste and appearance. Freshly extracted Novello olive oil is a vibrant, dark green, almost glowing with a rich density. Its taste is notably more intense than that of standard extra virgin olive oil, with pronounced grassy, peppery, and slightly bitter notes that can surprise first-time tasters. This boldness comes from the high levels of polyphenols, antioxidants, and chlorophyll present in the young olives. These compounds not only give the oil its pungency and slight bitterness but also contribute to its many health benefits.
Due to its freshness and the fact that it is often unfiltered, Novello olive oil is meant to be consumed within the first few months after harvest. As such, Italians often relish the opportunity to enjoy its full flavour and health benefits before the oil mellows over time.
A Celebration from North to South
In Italy, the arrival of Novello olive oil is more than just the availability of a fresh product—it’s a cultural event. Olive oil mills open their doors to the public, offering "frantoi aperti" (open mill days) where visitors can witness the production process of premium olive oil fresh from the mill, often a highly modern technological equipment which ensures cold extraction and minimal contact with air. It is often enjoyed simply, with a slice of crusty bread to fully appreciate its robust flavour. In some regions, it's paired with traditional seasonal dishes, like grilled vegetables, bruschetta, or bean soups, where the oil’s intensity elevates the simple ingredients to new heights. Many Italian first enjoy simply the smell of the very fresh olive oil, which is a first sign of quality.
From the olive groves of Liguria in the north to those of Sicily in the south, families gather around the table to share meals featuring the new oil. Each region has its own style of Novello, reflecting the local olive varieties, climate, and landscape, making the celebration of this oil a truly national event. In Tuscany, for instance, Novello olive oil is known for its bold, spicy and bitter , while the oils from southern regions like Calabria and Sicilian can often be smoother, primarily as a result of the flavour profile of the olives typical to each region.
The Health Benefits of Novello Olive Oil
Aside from its culinary appeal, Novello extra virgin olive oil is prized for its health benefits. The young olives used to produce this oil contain higher levels of antioxidants compared to more mature olives. These antioxidants, particularly polyphenols, have been linked to a variety of health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, heart health, and cancer prevention. Additionally, the high content of monounsaturated fats in olive oil is known to support cardiovascular health and lower cholesterol levels.
A Seasonal Treat with a Short Shelf Life
One of the key aspects of Novello olive oil is its freshness and the fact it is is often unfiltered. It it best enjoyed within a few months of the harvest. Its intense green colour progressively changes to yellow.
For many Italian households, Novello olive oil becomes a seasonal centerpiece, often given as a gift in the lead-up to Christmas. Bottles of this precious liquid are cherished, passed around at gatherings, and used generously to enhance dishes and celebrate the arrival of another harvest.
The arrival of Novello extra virgin olive oil marks a special moment in Italy’s annual culinary calendar. It is a celebration of the country’s rich agricultural traditions, the hard work of olive farmers, and the deep connection Italians have with their food. Whether drizzled on a slice of warm bread or used to finish a hearty winter dish, Novello oil is much more than just an ingredient—it’s a symbol of the season and a reminder of the simple joys of fresh, quality produce.
In a world where time-honoured traditions and seasonal produce are sometimes overshadowed by convenience, the celebration of Novello olive oil is a testament to Italy’s enduring appreciation for craftsmanship, flavour, and community. As families from north to south gather to enjoy the fruits of the olive harvest, they are reminded once again of the vital role food plays in bringing people together, whether they are looking to bring a special present to a dinner for family and friends or simply as an excuse to celebrate one of the tastiest Italian products at the peak of its freshness.