The Kalinjot monovarietal from Southern Albania was recognized for its medium intensity and fresh, savory character.
Olive Oil Times |
East Hampton, United States — The Illyrian Press has been awarded a Silver at the 2026 NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition for Illyria.
Illyria is a medium-intensity extra virgin olive oil produced exclusively from the endemic Kalinjot cultivar grown along the coast of Southern Albania. The oil is distinguished by a fresh, leafy character, savory artichoke tones and an herbaceous lift, finishing with a measured peppery bite that builds gradually on the palate.
The Illyrian Press is an East Hampton, New York-based company that imports single-varietal extra virgin olive oil from Southern Albania, focusing on high-quality lots that highlight Kalinjot’s distinct regional identity. The 2026 Silver follows earlier success at the NYIOOC, where Illyria previously earned a Gold Medal, bringing The Illyrian Press’s competition record to two awards overall: one Gold and one Silver.
In an earlier Olive Oil Times report, The Illyrian Press founder Andrew Strong said he hoped NYIOOC recognition for a Kalinjot monovarietal would draw broader attention to Albanian olive oil and to a cultivar that remains unfamiliar to many consumers outside the country. The Illyrian Press has also emphasized its role as the only Albanian olive oil currently imported to the United States, positioning Illyria as a direct introduction to Southern Albania’s coastal groves.
The 2026 NYIOOC Silver places Illyria among the year’s recognized extra virgin olive oils. In the Olive Oil Times World Ranking, The Illyrian Press is ranked #2 in Albania, #125 in the Northern Hemisphere and #127 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.