In recent years, the cost of olive oil has skyrocketed, transforming what was once an everyday kitchen necessity into a premium item that many are wary to splurge on. Gone are the days when you could pour olive oil freely into your dishes without a second thought about your finances. With prices for standard bottles climbing over 110% recently, it's crucial to ensure that your choice is not just about the allure of a fancy label but also about the quality within. After all, when some premium varieties can cost nearly £20 for a liter, you want to be certain you're receiving value for your money.
So, what exactly are you investing in when you purchase extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)? This top-tier oil stands out from lighter or 'pure' oils because it is essentially pure olive juice. It is extracted through a cold-pressing process that ensures the temperature never exceeds 27 degrees Celsius, thereby preserving its rich flavor and nutritional integrity. To maintain this freshness, olives must be pressed within 72 hours of being harvested.
For olive oil to earn the EVOO label, it must be entirely unrefined. Similar to wine, EVOO reflects its geographical origins, with each region imparting unique flavors and aromas. However, it’s important to note that, unlike wine, olive oil doesn’t improve with age; it’s best consumed within two years of harvest. To protect its quality from light, opt for dark or tinted bottles instead of clear ones, and store them in a cool, shaded area. If you don’t use olive oil frequently, it might be wise to avoid purchasing larger containers.
Beyond its impressive quality credentials, EVOO is celebrated for its numerous health advantages. It is abundant in monounsaturated fats, similar to those found in avocados and nuts, and studies have suggested a link between its consumption and a lower risk of heart disease and other health issues. Furthermore, EVOO is loaded with polyphenols, which are known for their potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Given the ongoing rise in olive oil prices, making an informed choice has never been more critical. That’s why I took the initiative to sift through various supermarket offerings to pinpoint the best olive oils that truly warrant their price tag. In addition to olive oils, the IndyBest team has also evaluated the finest supermarket wines, whiskies, and pizzas available.
Curious about the top contenders for supermarket olive oils in 2026? Here’s a quick overview:
- Best Overall: Asda Extra Special Greek Koroneiki extra virgin olive oil for £7, available at Asda.com.
- Best Budget Option: Aldi Specially Selected P.D.O Castel Del Monte extra virgin olive oil priced at £5.49, found on Aldi.co.uk.
- Best Luxury Pick: Waitrose No 1. Valli Trapanesi extra virgin olive oil retailing for £14.50, available at Waitrose.com.
How I Conducted My Taste Tests
To determine the best of the best, I sampled 15 different bottles of extra virgin olive oil from various supermarkets, narrowing my selections down to seven outstanding options. My tasting method involved pouring the oil into a glass and warming it slightly with my hands. After covering it briefly with my palm, I took a deep sniff followed by a sip. Much like wine tasting, the oil was swirled around the front of my mouth before inhaling air to let it travel to the back as well. I also enjoyed each olive oil by dipping fresh bread into it.
In addition to taste and aroma, I assessed each oil’s versatility and overall value for money. I paid close attention to its quality and whether it carried PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) status, as these designations indicate a very specific taste profile linked to their regions of production.
If you’re interested in discovering more culinary delights, check out our taste tests of the best supermarket pizzas!
