Nocellara del Belice: Types and characteristics of oil and olive

Introduction to Nocellara del Belice oil

Let's delve into the world of Nocellara del Belice oil, a product of excellence that boasts ancient roots and a unique sensorial profile. This fine extra virgin olive oil is mainly produced in the Belice Valley, in Sicily, a land rich in tradition and passion for agriculture.

• History and tradition: Nocellara del Belice oil boasts a long history, dating back to ancient times. The cultivation and production techniques passed down from generation to generation give this oil a distinctive character and superior quality.
• Nocellara del Belice variety: The Nocellara del Belice olive cultivar is one of the most appreciated for the production of extra virgin oil. The olives of this variety have a particular shape and an intense and fruity flavour, which translates into an oil with a strong and enveloping flavour.
• Production methods: The cultivation and production of Nocellara del Belice oil follow rigorous quality standards. The olives are harvested by hand and processed with care to preserve all their organoleptic and nutritional characteristics.
• Sensory characteristics: Nocellara del Belice oil stands out for its intense green color, fruity scent and complex aroma with notes of freshly cut grass and artichoke. In the mouth it is balanced, with a light bitter and spicy aftertaste that gives personality and persistence.

Let's immerse ourselves, therefore, in the unique and compelling universe of Nocellara del Belice oil, an Italian excellence to be discovered and appreciated.

Origins and history of Nocellara del Belice oil

The Nocellara del Belice cultivar has ancient roots that lie in the territory of western Sicily, more precisely in the valley of the Belice river, from which its name derives. The first traces of this olive tree date back several centuries and represent an important part of the island's agricultural history.

The Benedictine monks were among the first to cultivate it, appreciating its unique characteristics which still make it an excellence in the panorama of Sicilian extra virgin olive oils. Their care for the territory and the production of Nocellara del Belice oil has contributed to keeping this thousand-year-old tradition alive.

Over the centuries, Nocellara del Belice has been able to adapt to environmental conditions and has kept intact its distinctive characteristics which make it so appreciated. Today, its history is an integral part of Sicilian agricultural and gastronomic culture, representing a heritage to be passed down to future generations.

Furthermore, the protected designation of origin conferred on Nocellara del Belice oil underlines its historical and cultural importance, guaranteeing its quality and authenticity. Thanks to this certification, we can savor an oil that brings with it centuries of history and tradition, giving us a unique and inimitable tasting experience.

Sensory characteristics of Nocellara del Belice oil

The sensorial characteristics of Nocellara del Belice oil are a true hymn to olfactory and gustatory perceptions. This fine extra virgin olive oil stands out for:

• Color : It has a color that varies from intense green to golden, depending on the ripeness of the olives and the processing.
• Smell : The scent of Nocellara del Belice oil is fruity, with notes of freshly cut grass, almond and tomato.
• Taste : On the palate you can recognize intense vegetal hints, a light bitter aftertaste and a delicate spiciness which enhances the character of the oil.

Tasting this oil is a multisensory experience that involves both smell and taste. Tasting the Nocellara del Belice oil, it is possible to perceive the freshness of the freshly harvested olives and the quality of the processing which preserves all the organoleptic properties.

These sensory characteristics mean that Nocellara del Belice oil is appreciated both by those who use it in the kitchen to enhance the flavor of dishes, and by those who love to taste it on its own, appreciating the nuances and aromas that make it unique.

Production methods of Nocellara del Belice oil

The production methods of Nocellara del Belice oil are strictly controlled to guarantee the quality and preserve the distinctive characteristics of this fine product.

• Olive harvest : Nocellara del Belice olives are harvested by hand to ensure they are intact and undamaged, thus preserving their unique flavor and aromas.

• Pressing : The harvested olives are taken to the mill and pressed to obtain the olive paste. This operation must be carried out quickly and at low temperatures to preserve all the organoleptic qualities.

• Malaxing : The resulting paste is worked with malaxers to facilitate the separation of the oil from the water and pulp.

• Extraction : The extraction of the oil occurs through cold pressing, a method that allows all the nutrients and flavors of the Nocellara del Belice oil to be preserved intact.

• Decantation and filtration : After extraction, the oil is decanted to separate from any solid residues. Subsequently, it is filtered to ensure clarity and purity.

• Conservation : The oil is stored away from light and heat, in stainless steel or tin containers, to keep its qualities intact.

• Bottling : Finally, the Nocellara del Belice oil is bottled in dark glass bottles to protect it from light and preserve all its properties.

These traditional and artisanal methods are essential to obtain a high quality oil such as Nocellara del Belice oil, a treasure of the Sicilian culinary tradition.

Health benefits of Nocellara del Belice oil

• Rich in antioxidants that help fight free radicals and prevent cellular aging.
• Contains oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat that promotes heart health by reducing bad cholesterol.
• It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
• The presence of polyphenols helps protect our body from damage caused by oxidation.
• It promotes digestion and correct intestinal functioning thanks to its balanced composition of fats.
• It can be beneficial for skin and hair health due to its hydrating and nourishing properties.
• It contributes to improving mental and cognitive health, thanks to omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function.

In short, Nocellara del Belice oil is not only appreciated for its delicious aroma and unique flavor, but also for the numerous benefits it brings to our health.

Culinary uses of Nocellara del Belice oil

• Nocellara del Belice oil is widely appreciated in the kitchen for its unique organoleptic characteristics.
• Salad dressing: Thanks to its fruity and slightly spicy flavour, it is perfect for dressing mixed salads or grilled vegetables.
• Bruschettas and crostini: Ideal for classic bruschetta, it gives a touch of freshness to appetizers.
• Pasta and risottos: Add a drizzle of Nocellara del Belice oil to pasta and risottos to enhance the flavours.
• Grilled fish and meat: By brushing grilled fish or meat with this oil, you will obtain a unique and enveloping flavour.
• Pesto and sauces: Used in the preparation of pesto or sauces, it gives an intense and fruity aroma.
• Sweets: Surprisingly, Nocellara del Belice oil can also be used in sweet preparations such as biscuits or cakes, adding a refined note.

Remember to always store Nocellara del Belice oil in a cool place away from light, to keep all its precious aromas intact. Enjoy your meal!

Differences between extra virgin olive oil and Nocellara del Belice oil

We have discussed the types and characteristics of Nocellara del Belice oil, but it is also important to understand the differences between extra virgin olive oil and Nocellara del Belice oil, in order to fully appreciate their specificities:

• Origin of the olives : While extra virgin olive oil can come from different varieties of olives, Nocellara del Belice oil derives exclusively from the olive cultivar of the same name.
• Aroma and flavor : Extra virgin olive oil has a wide range of aromas and flavors depending on the varieties of olives used, while Nocellara del Belice oil is known for its intense and complex fruitiness, with hints of tomato and almond.
• Color : Extra virgin olive oil can have shades ranging from intense green to gold, depending on the harvesting period and processing, while Nocellara del Belice oil stands out for its typical intense green color with golden reflections.
• Intended use : While extra virgin olive oil is versatile and suitable for different preparations in the kitchen, Nocellara del Belice oil is particularly appreciated for enhancing typical dishes of the Sicilian tradition, such as citrus salads and fish-based dishes .

These differences make Nocellara del Belice oil a unique and valuable product, appreciated in both the culinary and gastronomic fields.

Conservation and tasting of Nocellara del Belice oil

The correct conservation of Nocellara del Belice oil is essential to guarantee the preservation of its organoleptic characteristics. To best preserve this precious product, it is advisable to keep the oil away from light and heat, preferably in cool, dark places. Furthermore, it is important to close the bottle tightly after use to avoid oxidation.

When tasting, it is advisable to use a dark blue glass or a special professional tasting glass. Pour a small quantity of oil into the cup, cover it with one hand and slightly heat the contents with the other hand to fully perceive the aromas.

When you taste Nocellara del Belice oil, try to perceive its sensorial characteristics: the green fruitiness of the olive, the hint of fresh grass, the slightly spicy and bitter flavor typical of this fine oil. Slide the oil into your mouth, savor it for a few moments and then inhale to perceive all the aromas.

Remember that, to best appreciate Nocellara del Belice oil, it is essential to taste it in combination with dishes that enhance its unique characteristics. Whether it is a salad dressing, a finishing touch on a fish dish or simply accompanied by good bread, Nocellara del Belice oil will give your dishes a touch of excellence.

Quality marks and certifications of Nocellara del Belice oil

The quality of Nocellara del Belice oil is recognized by various quality brands and certifications which attest to its excellence and authenticity. Some of the main brands and seals that guarantee the origin and quality of this fine extra virgin olive oil are:

• Protected Designation of Origin (DOP) : The DOP is a quality mark that certifies that Nocellara del Belice oil is produced in a specific geographical area and according to a specification that regulates its production.
• Organic : Organic certification ensures that Nocellara del Belice oil is obtained from organic farming, without the use of pesticides or chemical treatments harmful to the environment and health.
• PGI : The Protected Geographical Indication is a recognition that guarantees the origin and typicality of the oil, but unlike the PDO, it does not require that all production phases take place in a specific area.
• Quality Mark : Some consortia or companies that produce Nocellara del Belice oil can adopt internal quality marks that guarantee high production and organoleptic standards.

These certifications and quality marks are essential to protect and enhance Nocellara del Belice oil, guaranteeing consumers an authentic and high-quality product.

Curiosities and anecdotes about Nocellara del Belice oil

• The Nocellara del Belice olive variety was introduced into Sicily by the Saracens in the 9th century.
• Nocellara del Belice olives are particularly appreciated for their fruity, slightly sweet flavor with notes of almond.
• During the manual harvest of Nocellara del Belice olives, women still use the traditional method of bracelets made with intertwined olive branches.
• Nocellara del Belice extra virgin olive oil is considered one of the best in the world and is often used in gourmet cuisine to enhance flavors and aromas.
• The production area of ​​Nocellara del Belice oil, in the Trapani area, boasts a Mediterranean climate and soils rich in nutrients, which contribute to the superior quality of the oil.
• Nocellara del Belice olives are known for their high resistance to diseases and parasite attacks, which makes them a variety particularly appreciated by farmers.
• In religious ceremonies in Sicily, it is traditional to use Nocellara del Belice oil to bless new homes and protect them from the evil eye.
• Nocellara del Belice oil is excellent for dressing salads, fish dishes, grilled vegetables and roast meats, thanks to its balanced aromatic profile and low acidity.

We use our Nocellara del Belice oil to enhance the flavors and bring a piece of Sicilian tradition to the table. If you want to taste a Nocellara del Belice extra virgin olive oil, you can find two versions in our shop .