The robust extra virgin olive oil from Italy earned its latest Gold at the world’s leading olive oil quality contest.
Olive Oil Times |
Italy — Podere il Montaleo has been awarded a Gold at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for the Podere il Montaleo Blend brand.
Produced at robust intensity, Podere il Montaleo Blend is distinguished by a bright peppery bite alongside green almond freshness and a savory tomato character. The balance of pungency and green aromas reflects close attention to fruit handling and processing aimed at preserving aromatic clarity and structure.
Purchased by the family’s ancestors in 1846, the estate has expanded over time to about 30 hectares. In 2019, Podere il Montaleo inaugurated a new building that brought a modern mill, bottling plant, storage facility, office and workshop together on the farm, enabling the entire production process to take place on-site from harvest through packaging. The integrated approach allows Podere il Montaleo to manage each step of the supply chain, from field work to transforming the fruit into extra virgin olive oil.
The 2026 Gold adds to Podere il Montaleo’s consistent record at the competition, bringing its NYIOOC history to seven Gold awards. Podere il Montaleo earned one Gold each year from 2020 through 2025, with 2026 extending that streak.
In the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, Podere il Montaleo is ranked #25 in Italy, #64 in the Northern Hemisphere and #67 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.