Olive oil from Castilla-La Mancha

Castilla-La Mancha is one of the most important epicenters of olive oil production in Spain, ranking second in the country. With more than 450,000 hectares dedicated to olive cultivation and a recent record production exceeding 145,000 tons per year, this region perfectly combines agricultural tradition with modern technologies to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oils. Most of the olive groves are concentrated in the provinces of Ciudad Real and Toledo, with emblematic areas such as Montes de Toledo, Campo de Calatrava, and Campo de Montiel standing out, each with unique characteristics reflected in the sensorial richness of their oils.

The predominant olive variety in Castilla-La Mancha is the Cornicabra, recognized for its intense flavor, balance of bitterness and spiciness, and exceptional oxidative stability. This local variety is complemented by others such as Picual, Arbequina, and the exclusive Verdeja from the La Alcarria region, providing a diverse range of aromatic and flavor profiles. Furthermore, the region has four Protected Designations of Origin (PDOs): Montes de Toledo, Campo de Calatrava, Campo de Montiel, and Aceite de La Alcarria, each guaranteeing the exceptional quality, geographical origin, and traditional methods used in the production of its oils, which are highly valued nationally and internationally.

In Castilla-La Mancha, olive cultivation is not only an economic activity, but also an example of commitment to environmental sustainability and technological innovation. The region leads the production of organic olive oil in Spain, with more than 76,000 hectares certified using organic methods, free of chemicals and pesticides. This ecological commitment not only protects the environment but also allows for the production of extra virgin olive oils with superior health properties and authentic, distinctive flavors.

Furthermore, Castilla-La Mancha's olive oil mills have incorporated advanced technologies such as cold extraction, continuous centrifugation, and automated systems that control the entire production process to preserve the oil's freshness and sensory properties. Innovative practices such as the use of plant cover in olive groves, efficient water management through smart irrigation assisted by artificial intelligence, and the use of biomass energy from olive byproducts consolidate Castilla-La Mancha as a benchmark in sustainability. These initiatives not only improve the quality of the final product but also position Castilla-La Mancha's olive oils as a preferred choice for responsible consumers seeking healthy, sustainable products with a strong cultural identity.