OLIVE : “Where the olive tree stops growing is where the Mediterranean area ends”. The olive tree stands for the Mediterranean, and its history goes as far back as mankind itself, where it has always been the symbol of peace and fertility. Praised for its many virtues, the olive tree is particularly cherished by the Provençal people. From Mont Ventoux to the Luberon, and in and around the Dentelles-de- Montmirail, groves of olive trees stand side by side with vineyards, companions since time immemorial. Olive oil, the very image of sunshine and a healthy lifestyle, is the soul of Mediterranean cuisine. Production methods remain the same as in the past, and the flavor of the oil of the olive fruit is as pure and natural as it has always been. Rounded or strong, smooth or fruity, powerful or light, olive oils can be tasted and appreciated like the great wines.
The dominant variety in Vaucluse is the “Aglandau” variety, also called “Verdale de Carpentras”. This variety provides a very flavorful oil, with hints of artichoke and almond. Toward the north of Vaucluse, you find the variety called “La Tanche”, with a round, fleshy fruit which wrinkles up when ripe, and provides excellent black table olives. This variety is protected by a guaranteed label, called an appellation d’origine contrôlée (A.O.C. olive de Nyons). This label, a guarantee of quality, covers 20 towns in Vaucluse.

CELEBRATING OLIVE