Israel Romero / Tuesday, January 31, 2023 / Categories: Spanish Brands Arbequina vs. Picual EVOO: Their Differences Arbequina or Picual Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), that great Spanish product we love at MadeinSpain.store and constantly promote. The liquid gold of our cuisine — so bright, impeccable and reliable both for cooking and for dressing all kinds of recipes. A national gem produced in many regions of our country with fabulous excellence. But, do you know two of the most widely produced varieties? We reveal the differences between Arbequina and Picual EVOO, plus our recommendations. Arbequina variety Picual variety Made in Spain Gourmet recommendations [caption id="attachment_24090" align="aligncenter" width="800"] Arbequina or Picual EVOO: their differences[/caption] As the world's leading olive oil producer, no other country matches the quality of what we produce in Spain. It’s a product that adds aroma, color and flavor to dishes, backed by undeniable health benefits. There are other EVOO varieties such as Hojiblanca or Cornicabra, but Arbequina and Picual are the most widespread across our territory. Want to learn about their origins, where they are grown and their characteristics? Arbequina variety Originally from a distant place, the Arbequina olive variety is native to Palestine. The Duke of Medinaceli, baron of Arbeca (a town in Lleida), introduced it to Spain in the mid-18th century after importing it from Palestinian territory. From there its cultivation gradually spread throughout Catalonia and also Aragon, two regions where it is now most commonly found. This olive comes from trees with an open growth habit and medium canopy density, with a broom-like shape because they have long, sparsely branched shoots. These trees usually bloom in the first half of May, while their harvest can extend until January. Thus their olives are harvested later than those of the Picual variety. The fruit is also smaller, reddish or somewhat purple depending on ripeness. It is usually almost symmetrical and oval in shape. It offers great productivity and a high oil yield, which makes cultivating Arbequina an excellent option. Although the olive is smaller, the oil it produces is worthwhile. The color of the EVOO from this variety is more yellowish than Picual’s, even when early-harvested. Regarding gastronomic qualities, we are talking about a very fresh, young oil, more aromatic. With a sweeter taste and less pungency, its fruity flavor is much milder. Because of its composition, it is more susceptible to oxidation. Therefore, you should store it in the dark at a cool to moderate temperature. When used in the kitchen, it is perfect for enhancing other flavors. Now you know some differences between Arbequina and Picual EVOO — let’s continue! Picual variety For its part, the origin of the Picual variety is somewhat uncertain, though with nuances. It is known that some of the oldest olive trees are found in the town of Martos (Jaén). There are specimens there more than five centuries old. In that Jaén area this olive is called Marteña, while its better-known name comes from its characteristic pointed shape. Another name it receives is “nevadillo blanco.” So you can get an idea of its main growing area: Andalusia, specifically Jaén and Córdoba. The southern peninsula has always been its preferred home, although its adaptability has taken Picual to other geographic and climatic areas. It is even tolerant of frost. For that reason, it is the variety with the most hectares cultivated nationally and worldwide. It comes from a vigorous tree with a compact crown, short branches that sprout abundantly and tend to close rather than open. Its fruit is medium to large, thus heavier than Arbequina, and is defined by a pronounced point at the bottom. With high productivity, its harvest is earlier. The resulting liquid gold is a more greenish color. Its home storage life is somewhat superior, as it resists oxidation longer. From a sensory point of view, the oil made from Picual olives offers an intense flavor. Full-bodied, with some bitterness and more pungency than the other variety. On the other hand, it has a greater presence of oleic acids, polyphenols and natural antioxidants. These nutrients make it an even healthier oil, although you know that all Arbequina and Picual EVOOs are healthy when consumed in moderation. Made in Spain Gourmet recommendations In our store we have a catalog of extra virgin olive oils as exquisite as this product. Several brands and producers of excellent Arbequina and Picual EVOOs let you keep this pantry essential of a balanced healthy diet on hand. We recommend checking the acidity level when choosing the bottle that interests you most, as well as its versatility for cooking. You can also filter by organic oils or those that are more premium. Among the Arbequina and Picual EVOOs we suggest trying those from Castillo de Canena, very distinctive and even innovative. Others from the Jaén area are those from Rusdalia, Pintarré and Elogio, although our list is extensive so you can choose: Mas Montseny, Rocarell, Ros Caubó, Luxury and Sietemil. Find the one you like best now at MadeinSpain Gourmet — every option is of excellent quality! Rocarell Organic Olive Oil Arbequina Set d'Oli Biodynamic Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Picual, Castillo de Canena The Artichoke: A Source of Health Iberian specialties and Black-Label acorn‑fed ham: there's nothing better. Print 4 Rate this article: No rating Tags: premiumSpanish brandsMade in SpainMade in Spain GourmetMadeInSpainStore Please login or register to post comments.