Regular EVOO vs. Early Harvest EVOO and First Day of Harvest EVOO: which one to choose and why

EVOO: much more than extra virgin olive oil

EVOO (extra virgin olive oil) is one of the most valued foods in the Mediterranean diet. However, not all EVOOs are the same. The moment when the olives are harvested has a direct impact on flavor, aroma, intensity, yield and health properties.

Depending on the harvest time, we can mainly distinguish three types: regular EVOO, early harvest EVOO and first day of harvest EVOO. Each one offers a different experience and responds to a specific consumer profile.

Regular EVOO: balance, smoothness and everyday use

Regular EVOO is produced from olives harvested at their optimal ripeness, when the fruit has already changed color and oil yield is higher.

This type of olive oil offers a balanced sensory profile, with a smoother, rounder and more approachable flavor. Bitterness and pungency are moderate, making it ideal for everyday use and for all kinds of culinary applications.

In addition, its higher yield per kilogram of olives makes regular EVOO more accessible, while still maintaining the quality standards of a good extra virgin olive oil.

Early harvest EVOO: maximum intensity and high polyphenol content

Early harvest EVOO is obtained from olives harvested at the very beginning of the season, when the fruit is still green. This early harvesting results in oils with a very strong personality.

From a sensory point of view, early harvest EVOO stands out for its intense green aromas, pronounced bitterness and pungency, and great complexity on the palate. It is an olive oil designed for experienced palates and lovers of bold flavors.

Nutritionally, it is the EVOO with the highest concentration of polyphenols and natural antioxidants, which translates into greater health benefits. As a trade-off, its yield is lower and production is more limited.

First day of harvest EVOO: virtue lies in the middle

First day of harvest EVOO occupies a very special place in the world of extra virgin olive oil. It is produced from the first olives harvested at the exact start of the season, at a key moment of balance between freshness and ripeness.

This EVOO lies halfway between regular EVOO and early harvest EVOO. It offers remarkable aromatic intensity, with fresh green notes, but with more harmonious and pleasant bitterness and pungency than early harvest oils.

From a nutritional standpoint, it maintains a high content of antioxidants and healthy compounds, while offering a much more balanced and enjoyable sensory profile.

That is why it is often said that virtue lies in the middle: an olive oil with character, healthy and expressive, yet elegant and accessible. A perfect EVOO both for raw consumption and for enhancing any dish without overpowering it.

Key differences between regular EVOO, early harvest EVOO and first day of harvest EVOO

• Harvest time: regular (ripe olives), early harvest (green olives), first day (exact start of the season).
• Flavor: regular is smooth and balanced, early harvest is intense and bold, first day is fresh and harmonious.
• Polyphenol content: very high in early harvest, high in first day, moderate in regular.
• Yield: higher in regular EVOO, lower in early harvest, intermediate in first day.
• Consumer profile: everyday use, expert gourmet, and balanced gourmet respectively.

The value of a well-crafted EVOO

Choosing a great EVOO does not depend only on harvest timing, but also on olive grove care, precise harvesting and respectful production methods that preserve all the natural properties of the fruit.

At Aceite Herencia, we are committed to producing high-quality EVOOs, carefully crafted from grove to mill, selecting the right harvest moment to offer olive oils that reflect the perfect balance between flavor, health and tradition.

Conclusion: three EVOOs, one conscious choice

Regular EVOO, early harvest EVOO and first day of harvest EVOO represent three different ways of enjoying extra virgin olive oil.

If you are looking for extreme intensity, early harvest EVOO is your best ally. If you prefer smoothness and versatility, regular EVOO is ideal. But if you are searching for a special olive oil that balances freshness, intensity and elegance, first day of harvest EVOO proves that, indeed, virtue lies in the middle.