Turkish Olive Oil Buying Guide

A good bottle of Turkish olive oil can elevate your culinary experience, and knowing how to choose the best one is essential. To help you choose the best olive oil in Turkey from all the options, we have listed the best Turkish olive oil brands and the types of products you should know about.

Here's a detailed guide to help you select the finest Turkish olive oil:

Types of Turkish Olive Oil

1. Naturel Sızma Zeytinyağı (Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
   • Acidity: Less than 0.8%
   • Description: This is the highest quality olive oil, made from 100% raw olives with minimal processing. It is rich in flavor and nutrients, making it ideal for salads, dips, and drizzling over dishes. Some producers, like Özgün from Ayvalık, use traditional stone presses (taş baskı) to extract this oil, preserving its exceptional quality. It is recommended to consume it cold to retain its nutritional benefits.
2. Erken Hasat Naturel Sızma Zeytinyağı (Early Harvest Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
   • Acidity: Less than 0.8%
   • Description: This oil is made from olives harvested before full ripeness. It has a robust, slightly bitter, and spicy flavor. Due to the higher olive-to-oil ratio and the early harvest, it is usually more expensive. For the freshest experience, look for Yeni Hasat, which indicates the oil was produced in the current year.
3. Naturel Birinci Zeytinyağı (First Grade Extra Virgin Olive Oil)
   • Acidity: Between 0.8% and 2%
   • Description: This olive oil is still of high quality but slightly less so than Naturel Sızma. Laleli, located in Taylıeli Köyü, Burhaniye, produces a notable variety with an acidity of 1.5%, perfect for cooking and everyday use.
4. Naturel Zeytinyağı (Virgin Olive Oil)
   • Acidity: No more than 2%
   • Description: This oil is a step down from extra virgin, offering a milder flavor and slightly higher acidity. It is often used in cooking rather than raw applications.
5. Rafine Zeytinyağı (Refined Olive Oil)
   • Acidity: More than 2%
   • Description: Also known as "pure" olive oil, this type is refined to remove impurities and has a more neutral flavor. Historically used for oil lamps, it is now primarily used for frying and cooking where a strong olive flavor is not desired.
6. Riviera Olive Oil
   • Description: A blend of virgin and refined olive oils, Riviera olive oil has a milder taste and is suitable for general cooking purposes. Its flavor profile differs significantly from natural virgin oils.

Top 7 Turkish Premium Olive Oil Brands

1. Selatin
   • Details: Produced by Selin Ertür, an experienced oleologist in Edremit. The family has been in olive oil production since 1899, and the factory includes a museum showcasing its history.
   • Location: Edremit
2. Hiç Olive Oil
   • Details: Established in Urla in 2012, Hiç focuses on organic agriculture, sustainability, and renewable energy. Founder Duygu Elakdar has set new standards in the industry.
   • Location: Urla
3. Kürşat Olive Oil
   • Details: This family-owned business operates in Ayvalık and has a flagship store in Istanbul. Known for its boutique production and high-quality products.
   • Location: Nişantaşı, Istanbul
4. Orfion
   • Details: A newer brand with a rich history, Orfion is based in Erenköy, Çanakkale Province. The name is inspired by the ancient region's name.
   • Location: Erenköy, Çanakkale Province
5. Kilye
   • Details: Kilye, associated with the Suvla wine producer, offers a range of olive-based products. Their offerings include olive oil, jams, pasta, and sauces, all natural with no additives.
   • Location: Eceabat
6. Aleli
   • Details: Known for its antik naturel sızma zeytinyağı, Aleli uses olives from century-old trees. The company has a store in Bebek where you can purchase their unique oils.
   • Location: Bebek, Istanbul
7. Dino Olive Oil
   • Details: Dino focuses on quick processing, ensuring a fresh and healthy taste. The brand also produces natural soaps from olive oil.
   • Location: Ayvalık

When selecting Turkish olive oil, consider the type and brand that best fits your culinary needs and preferences. Whether for drizzling, dipping, or cooking, these top brands and types offer a range of flavors and qualities to enhance your dishes.