Boutique olive producer LOT EIGHT has again been recognised for consistent high standards this season, winning another ‘Best in Class’ award for its Artemesia (Red Label) Extra Virgin Olive Oil at the 2008 Olives NZ awards.
LOT EIGHT is one of only two producers in New Zealand to achieve back-to-back Best in Class awards this year, in the showcase of New Zealand Extra Virgin Olive Oil. For LOT EIGHT the win was in the same category both years.
The Olives NZ awards panel included two International judges from Italy as well as local internationally-accredited judges. The panel commented on the difficult year experienced by the industry this season, with late harvests and challenging flavour balances.This was reflected in a low number of gold medals generally.
The LOT EIGHT Artemesia, like the 2007 Best in Class LOT EIGHT Red Label, demonstrates oil maker Nalini Baruch’s intuition and ability to blend a predominantly Koroneiki oil with another variety to balance the final product’s flavours; producing a soft, fruity oil with a subtle peppery finish, able to complement a variety of warm dishes.
Following its win last year, the 2007 Red Label went on to win a silver medal at the LA County Fair 9 months after it was produced, a clear indication of its quality.
Recognition in New Zealand follows closely on another regional first. LOT EIGHT has been selected as one of only three producers from New Zealand to supply The Fresh Olive Oil Club in the UK. The Club includes top chefs and food critics in Britain and Europe as well as internationally recognised olive oil experts and consultants. It is committed to sourcing quality products from around the world and celebrating new releases.
LOT EIGHT is the first EVOO producer in the Wairarapa and one of only a few in New Zealand to attain such international recognition. As a boutique brand, it has produced gold medal oils for over 5 years, from fruit grown at its own and neighbouring groves near Martinborough.
Oil maker Nalini Baruch has guided the fortune of LOT EIGHT from its first pressings in 2000, and says each year is different, depending on growing conditions during the year; harvest conditions, ripeness and volumes of fruit.
Nalini says the success of LOT EIGHT comes from closely working with growers, contractors, food retailers and chefs in a partnership built on an appreciation of the olive and a love of food. One of only a few Martinborough brands remaining in the hands of the original owners, it has established a reputation for consistent quality, as a hands-on business ensuring sustainable farming practices and producing quality products.
| < Prev | Next > |
|---|
