The southern Istrian family estate earned its fifth NYIOOC Gold for a medium-intensity monovarietal Istrian Bjelica.
Olive Oil Times |
Loborika, Croatia — OPG Oleum Lavarigo has been awarded a Gold at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for Ča Istarska Bjelica.
Ča Istarska Bjelica is an extra virgin olive oil of medium intensity produced from the Istrian Bjelica cultivar. Marked by fresh grass aromas and a clean arugula note, Ča Istarska Bjelica reflects the pungent, green character often associated with the variety when milled at peak freshness.
OPG Oleum Lavarigo is a small family-owned farm in southern Istria, a region that has built an international reputation for quality olive growing. Olive cultivation in the family traces back generations to 1892, when the current estate took shape after the family settled in Loborika. Today, OPG Oleum Lavarigo cultivates 1,300 olive trees across nearly five hectares.
The 2026 Gold continues a consistent performance at the world’s largest olive oil quality contest. Across its NYIOOC participation, OPG Oleum Lavarigo has earned five Gold Awards, including one Gold in 2025, one in 2024 and two in 2023.
In the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, OPG Oleum Lavarigo is ranked #19 in Croatia, #73 in the Northern Hemisphere and #75 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.