The Arbequina olive: a Catalan heritage for the world

If the Picual is strength and character, the Arbequina is delicacy, balance and elegance. An olive born in Catalonia, nurtured with patience, and today traveling the world winning over those who seek a gentle, aromatic oil that's easy to enjoy. At Made in Spain Gourmet we believe each variety has its moment, its cuisine and its personality. And the Arbequina is, without a doubt, one of the great jewels of Spanish extra virgin olive oil.

What is the Arbequina olive?

The Arbequina is a small, rounded and very aromatic olive. Its name comes from the municipality of Arbeca, in the comarca of Les Garrigues (Lleida), where it began to be cultivated centuries ago and from where it spread to the rest of the territory. It is a thankful variety: early-ripening, very productive, and with a sensory profile that has made it a favorite both for regular consumers and for those new to the world of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO).

Where is the Arbequina grown?

Although its natural cradle is Catalonia, especially:

• Les Garrigues (Lleida)
• Tarragona
• Inland Barcelona

Today the Arbequina is also grown in other areas of Spain thanks to its adaptability:

• Aragón
• Navarra
• Andalusia (in modern plantations)
• Castilla-La Mancha
• Extremadura

It has even traveled beyond our borders, but it is in Spain —and very especially in Catalonia— where it shows its most authentic expression.

What an Arbequina EVOO is like

The Arbequina extra virgin olive oil is an oil that is easy to adopt. It is mild, aromatic and very balanced—perfect for those looking for elegance without loudness. Visually it is usually golden yellow with green highlights. On the nose it is very pleasant, with notes of ripe fruit, apple, banana, fresh almond and soft herbaceous tones. On the palate it stands out for its natural sweetness, with bitterness and peppery bite very mild or almost non-existent. It is silky, round and harmonious. An oil that does not overpower, but accompanies. That is why the Arbequina is ideal for:

• Salads
• White fish
• Steamed vegetables
• Mayonnaises and emulsions
• Pastry
• Gentle and creative cooking

General characteristics of the Arbequina

Beyond its sensory profile, the Arbequina has very interesting characteristics:

• High in oleic acid
• Good digestibility
• Ideal for raw consumption
• Highly valued by chefs and restaurateurs
• Excellent for all kinds of consumers

It is an oil that appeals to almost everyone, from the gourmet consumer to someone who simply wants a good everyday oil without edges.

Made in Spain Gourmet recommendations

At Made in Spain Gourmet we select Arbequinas that represent different ways of understanding excellence, always with respect for origin and the environment.   Kylatt Arbequina Organic A clean, fresh and very well-balanced Arbequina. Perfect for daily use, with a soft, natural profile that works in any kitchen. Cuadrat Oli – Elixir & Oli (Organic) Two carefully crafted expressions of organic Arbequina. Elegant, aromatic and precise oils designed to be enjoyed raw and to appreciate all their nuances. Románico Arbequina Organic True to the classic style of the variety: mild, harmonious and very pleasant. Ideal for those seeking balance and consistency. Castillo de Canena Arbequina Biodynamic An absolute reference. Here the Arbequina reaches an exceptional level of finesse. Complex, elegant and deeply respectful of the land. An oil to enjoy slowly. Set d’Oli Arbequina Organic An honest Arbequina, very well crafted, that perfectly reflects the Mediterranean character: simplicity, balance and everyday pleasure. Mas Montseny Arbequina An authentic expression of the Catalan territory. Fresh, aromatic and very easy to integrate into any dish. Ideal for those seeking proximity and clear origin.   Spain, world leader in extra virgin olive oil Spain is the world's largest producer of extra virgin olive oil, and not only by volume. Increasingly, recognition comes from quality, the diversity of varieties and work well done. Picual, Arbequina, Hojiblanca, Cornicabra… each tells a different story, but all speak of the same: culture, landscape and know-how.

Made in Spain Gourmet: your trusted source

At Made in Spain Gourmet we don't sell random products. We select what we know, what we taste and what we would recommend at our own table. Our commitment is clear: To offer you the best of Spain, with transparency, closeness and trust. The Arbequina olive is a heritage that was born in Catalonia and is now enjoyed worldwide. And here, at Made in Spain Gourmet, we bring it to you as it deserves.