The European Union has published in its Official Journal the regulation registering the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) “Olive Oil from the Sierras Espadán and Calderona” in the EU register of protected geographical indications.
This new PDO covers extra virgin olive oil and virgin olive oil produced primarily from the native Espadán mountain variety, along with other minor varieties such as Villalonga, Canetera, Morruda, and Arbequina.
This oil is renowned for its high quality and unique sensory profile. It stands out for its sweet and smooth flavor, with a distinct fruity character and notes of green almond and fresh grass. Its color ranges from green to yellow, and on the palate it offers a slight spiciness and a delicate bitter finish, which impart freshness, balance, and persistence.
These characteristics result from a combination of the native variety, natural growing conditions, and traditional production methods. Harvesting the olives early—directly from the tree and before they are fully ripe—helps preserve the fruit’s quality, minimize oxidation, and enhance the characteristic flavor profile of this oil.
Sierra de Espadán y Sierra Calderona
The production area is located in the vicinity of the Sierra de Espadán and Sierra Calderona Natural Parks and includes 28 municipalities in the provinces of Castellón and Valencia. It is a region of high environmental value, characterized by mountainous terrain, poor, stony soils, and a Mediterranean climate influenced by its proximity to the sea. The easterly breeze and nighttime dew help reduce water stress in the olive trees and promote slower ripening of the olives—factors that result in a higher content of natural pigments and the distinctive aromatic profile of this oil.
With this new designation, Spain now has 399 quality designations recognized by the European Union and reinforces its position as one of the leading countries in the protection and promotion of agri-food products linked to its territory.
Protected Designations of Origin (PDO), Protected Geographical Indications (PGI), and Traditional Specialities Guaranteed (TSG) are among the main tools for preserving Europe’s agri-food heritage, guaranteeing the origin and quality of products, and generating added value in rural areas. In Spain, these designations represent the union of tradition, knowledge, sustainability, and innovation, and help showcase the excellence of Spanish agri-food production on the international stage.
