What is Early Harvest Olive Oil and how is It different from Extra Virgin Olive Oil?
In the world of olive oils, early harvest olive oil is often seen as a premium choice—rich in flavor, deep in color, and packed with health benefits. But what exactly is it? And how does it differ from the extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) you find on most supermarket shelves?
Let’s break it down so you can make informed, flavorful choices—especially if you’re in the UAE, where appreciation for gourmet and healthy ingredients is growing rapidly.
What Is Early Harvest Olive Oil?
Early harvest olive oil is made from olives that are picked early in the season, typically from late September to early November, before they reach full ripeness. These olives are still green, firm, and have lower oil content compared to fully ripe ones.
Because of this, early harvest olive oil is:
- Greener in color
- Bolder and more bitter in flavor
- Higher in antioxidants and polyphenols
- Less abundant and usually more expensive
In contrast, regular extra virgin olive oil is made from olives harvested later, when the fruit is ripe, softer, and more abundant in oil. This results in a milder, fruitier oil with a golden hue.
Key differences between early harvest and extra virgin olive oil
| Feature | Early Harvest Olive Oil | Extra Virgin Olive Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Harvest Time | Early season (green olives) | Mid to late season (ripe olives) |
| Flavor | Bold, grassy, peppery | Mellow, fruity, smooth |
| Color | Deep green | Golden or light green |
| Antioxidants | Higher polyphenol content | Lower polyphenol content |
| Shelf Life | Longer (thanks to antioxidants) | Standard |
| Price | Premium | Varies |
Health benefits of early harvest olive oil
Early harvest olive oil is considered a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s why many people—especially those seeking a Mediterranean-inspired lifestyle in the UAE—prefer it:
- Higher Polyphenols: These powerful antioxidants help fight inflammation and protect against heart disease.
- Anti-Inflammatory: Compounds like oleocanthal act like natural pain relievers.
- Better Shelf Stability: The higher antioxidant content helps the oil last longer without losing quality.
- Heart Health: Just like extra virgin olive oil, early harvest varieties are rich in monounsaturated fats, which help lower LDL (bad cholesterol).
Culinary uses of early harvest olive oil
This oil isn’t just about health—it’s about flavor. The intense, peppery profile of early harvest olive oil makes it ideal for:
- Drizzling over salads (especially with citrus or goat cheese)
- Finishing grilled meats and seafood
- Dipping with warm bread and za’atar
- Elevating roasted vegetables and hummus plates
In the UAE, where global cuisine meets tradition, early harvest oils add depth to everything from mezze platters to fusion dishes.
Why Is early harvest olive oil popular in the UAE?
The UAE has become a hotspot for gourmet ingredients, wellness trends, and refined dining. Consumers here value:
- Authenticity
- Health-conscious ingredients
- Premium products with a story
Early harvest olive oil ticks all those boxes. At Giving Oil, we’ve noticed a growing interest from chefs, health-focused expats, and locals alike who want the best olive oils from around the world, including Spain, Greece, and Türkiye.
Discover Early Harvest Olive Oils at Giving Oil
At Giving Oil, we don’t produce olive oil—we specialize in sourcing the best. That means our shelves are filled with carefully selected early harvest olive oils from award-winning producers, all available in the UAE with quick delivery.
Whether you’re a food lover, a home chef, or someone starting a wellness journey, early harvest olive oil is a must-try.
Browse our Early Harvest Collection now
Taste the difference. Feel the benefits. Shop with confidence.
Add comment