The Chilean producer was recognized for Bravo Olivo, 1492 Arbequina and Oro Maule in the world’s leading olive oil quality contest.
Olive Oil Times |
Pencahue Valley, Chile — Olivares de Quepu has been awarded a Gold and two Silvers at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition, including a Silver for 1492 Arbequina.
The 1492 Arbequina extra virgin olive oil, made from Arbequina olives and produced at medium intensity, stood out for its balance and freshness. Marked by notes of artichoke and arugula, the profile is reinforced by a thread of unripe fruit character and a black pepper finish that builds with persistence.
In a strong showing for the Maule region, Olivares de Quepu also received a Gold for Bravo Olivo, a robust extra virgin olive oil, and a Silver for Oro Maule, produced at medium intensity. Together, the three awards underscore a portfolio that spans styles while remaining focused on precision in grove management and milling.
Founded in 1999, Olivares de Quepu is located in the Pencahue Valley, eight kilometers east of Talca in Chile’s Maule region. Over the years, the company expanded from 14 hectares of olive trees to more than 700 hectares, building a large-scale agricultural operation anchored in olive cultivation and processing.
For oil production, Olivares de Quepu grows Arbequina, Frantoio, Favolosa, Picual, Barnea and Leccino olives, among other varieties. Manzanilla and Sevillana are cultivated separately for table olive production, reflecting a dual focus that supports both extra virgin olive oil and table olive markets.
The 2026 results add to Olivares de Quepu’s track record at the NYIOOC. Overall, the producer has earned two Gold and five Silver awards, totaling seven distinctions, including a notable 2023 performance of one Gold and three Silvers.
The latest results also strengthened Olivares de Quepu’s standing in the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, where the producer is ranked #6 in Chile, #33 in the Southern Hemisphere and #111 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.