The Castilla-La Mancha farm earned its third consecutive Gold award for La Ballestera, recognized for its robust intensity and fresh green aromas.
Olive Oil Times |
Castilla-La Mancha, Spain — La Ballestera has been awarded a Gold at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for La Ballestera.
La Ballestera is an extra virgin olive oil of robust intensity, produced from Picual olives. Marked by a crisp green character, La Ballestera is distinguished by eucalyptus and mint aromatics, a savory edge reminiscent of celery and arugula, and a lingering green almond finish that builds in complexity on the palate.
A young farm in Castilla-La Mancha, La Ballestera is dedicated to the cultivation of olive groves and vineyards and operates its own packaging company, with production and branding supported through La Ballestera.
The 2026 Gold extends La Ballestera’s record at the NYIOOC to three Gold awards overall, following Gold distinctions in 2025 and 2024.
The 2026 NYIOOC result also strengthens La Ballestera’s standing in the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, where La Ballestera is ranked #34 in Spain, #81 in the Northern Hemisphere and #84 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.