The delicate Galega monovarietal from Alentejo earned recognition at the world’s leading olive oil quality contest
Olive Oil Times |
Alentejo, Portugal — Monte Vale de Baio has been awarded a Silver at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for the Baio brand.
Baio is an extra virgin olive oil of delicate intensity, produced exclusively from the Galega cultivar. Harvested early and cold-pressed, Baio is distinguished by notes of green apple and green olive leaf, finishing with a gentle spice that lingers on the palate.
Monte Vale de Baio is a regenerative organic farm in Portugal’s Alentejo region, producing limited quantities of organic extra virgin olive oil from traditional Galega groves planted in 1903 and 1953. The non-irrigated orchards are maintained through regenerative agricultural practices that prioritize long-term soil health and careful stewardship of the farm’s historic plantings.
The 2026 Silver continues Monte Vale de Baio’s record at the NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition. The producer has earned three Silver Awards in total, with previous recognitions in 2025 and 2022.
In the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, Monte Vale de Baio is ranked #15 in Portugal, #93 in the Northern Hemisphere and #97 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.