The Croatian organic estate in Ravni Kotari earned a Silver Award for its medium-intensity blend of ten cultivars.
Olive Oil Times |
Ravni Kotari, Croatia — Esencija Olive Oil has been awarded a Silver at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for Esencija Selekcija Blago.
Esencija Selekcija Blago is an extra virgin olive oil of medium intensity. Crafted from Frantoio, Leccino, Oblica, Buza, Carolea, Pendolino, Levantinka, Drobnica, Ascolana tenera and Istarska Bjelica, Esencija Selekcija Blago is distinguished by a green, savory character, with notes that recall artichoke and fig leaf, layered with walnut, pine seed and fresh leaf.
Esencija Olive Oil is based in Ravni Kotari, where the organic estate was developed beginning in 2005. Over 25 hectares, karst mines were transformed into organic olive groves, alongside vineyards and fig cultivation, creating a boutique agricultural project centered on sustainability and limited production.
Alongside extra virgin olive oil, Esencija Olive Oil produces wines and fig products, with an emphasis on small quantities and consistency from bottle to bottle. Esencija Olive Oil has also connected its agricultural work to the Zadar region’s rural development, supporting authentic tourism experiences rooted in local production.
The Silver Award from NYIOOC places Esencija Selekcija Blago among the world’s most recognized extra virgin olive oils. In the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, Esencija Olive Oil is ranked #56 in Croatia, #127 in the Northern Hemisphere and #129 Worldwide.
The NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition, widely regarded as the world’s leading olive oil quality contest, is a trusted reference for consumers and industry professionals.