True Commitment to the Three Regions of the Peloponnese

 

Ilia

The Ilia region, located in the western part of the Peloponnese, is celebrated for its lush landscapes and favorable climate, which contribute to the production of high-quality olive oil. The olives grown here, particularly the Koroneiki variety, are known for their robust and fruity flavors. Ilia’s extra virgin olive oil typically has a vibrant green color, with a rich aroma that features notes of fresh grass, artichoke, and green apples.

The taste of Ilian olive oil is often described as bold, with a peppery finish that stimulates the palate. This spiciness is attributed to the high levels of oleocanthal, a natural compound that also boasts anti-inflammatory properties. At Pelops, we carefully harvest our olives from local groves in Ilia, ensuring that the oil is cold-pressed within hours of picking. This meticulous process guarantees that our Ilian olive oil retains its fresh, vibrant flavors, making it perfect for drizzling over salads or dipping fresh bread.

Mani

Moving to the Mani Peninsula, we find another unique expression of Greek olive oil. The Mani region is known for its rocky terrain and traditional farming methods, where olive trees thrive amidst the rugged landscape. The olives here are predominantly the Koroneiki variety, similar to Ilia, but the resulting oil has its own distinct character. Mani’s extra virgin olive oil is typically characterized by its golden-green hue and an aromatic profile that includes hints of citrus and herbs.

The flavor of Mani olive oil is generally more balanced, with a harmonious blend of fruitiness and a subtle bitterness that enhances its complexity. This oil is often described as smooth and slightly nutty, making it versatile for both cooking and finishing dishes. Pelops ensures that our olive oil from Mani is sourced from specific farms that follow traditional harvesting methods, safeguarding the quality and authenticity of the product. By avoiding any mixing with oils from larger suppliers, we maintain the unique essence of Mani’s olive oil.

Kalamata

Kalamata, perhaps the most famous region for olive oil, is renowned not only for its delicious olives but also for its exceptional extra virgin olive oil. The Kalamata variety produces a rich, dark-green oil with a fruity aroma and a slightly floral undertone. This oil is known for its well-rounded flavor profile, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and mild bitterness.

Kalamata olive oil is prized for its smooth texture and lingering aftertaste, which makes it an ideal accompaniment to Mediterranean dishes, enhancing salads, grilled vegetables, and even desserts. At Pelops, we prioritize quality by sourcing our Kalamata olives from specific groves that are carefully tended to, ensuring that our oil is pure and unadulterated. By avoiding the use of large mixing tanks and maintaining control over our supply chain, we guarantee that each bottle of Kalamata olive oil embodies the region's rich heritage and flavor.

 

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Pelops Commitment

At Pelops, our commitment to quality means that every bottle of our extra virgin olive oil is a true representation of its region. By ensuring that our oils are sourced from single-origin fields and processed without mixing, we provide our customers with the finest flavors and health benefits that Greek olives have to offer. Whether it’s the bold character of Ilia, the balanced notes of Mani, or the rich essence of Kalamata, Pelops delivers a taste of Greece’s best, straight from our fields to your table.