With hearts racing and palates primed, the South African olive industry enters an exhilarating phase as the judging week for the 18th annual SA Olive Awards takes centre stage. Embarking on this thrilling journey, a distinguished panel of international and local connoisseurs has convened to discern the crème de la crème among the entries of Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) from across the nation.
The curtain lifted on Monday, August 21st, signalling the commencement of a high-stakes week filled with sensory exploration and meticulous scrutiny. The anticipation swells as the experts dedicate themselves to the meticulous tasting and assessment of every EVOO entry, each representing the passion and expertise of South Africa’s olive oil producers.
As the sun sets on the captivating landscapes of Klein Joostenberg, near Stellenbosch, the collective attention of the industry is riveted on this year’s SA Olive Awards. The coveted event, scheduled to unfold at the resplendent L’Atium, Grande Roche in Paarl on Friday, 8 September 2023, stands as a beacon of recognition for those who relentlessly pursue excellence within the realm of Extra Virgin Olive Oil.
The stage is set: Global palates unite
Guiding the discerning palates of this year’s awards are a constellation of international judges who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of EVOO perfection.
At the helm of this prestigious panel is Himeyo Nagatomo, a true luminary in the world of olive oil. As the torchbearer for accurate EVOO knowledge worldwide, she commands unparalleled respect as the president of the Japan Olive Oil Taster Association. Having graced the judging tables of illustrious competitions worldwide, including those in Italy, New Zealand, and the United States, Nagatomo’s expertise infuses the panel with global insights.
Joining this symphony of taste is Fil Bucchino, an aficionado renowned for his unrelenting commitment to EVOO excellence. Hailing from the olive oil heartland of Florence, Italy, Fil’s journey is a testament to the fusion of tradition and innovation. His organisation, Abandoned Grove, stands as a testament to his dedication, and his accolades, including the prestigious “2023 Olive Oil Personality” title, paint a portrait of a visionary in the field.
Homegrown mastery: Local heroes of flavour
No less luminary are the local judges, each a maestro in their own right, conducting a harmonious exploration of EVOO nuances.
Benedetta Lami, who imbibed the essence of exceptional olive oil in the Tuscan hills of Italy, brings an authentic touch to the proceedings. Her journey from professional taster to esteemed member of the SA Olive tasting panel embodies the passion that drives the industry’s growth.
Jackie Loubser, a rising star in the world of EVOO, embodies the spirit of learning and growth. Having traversed a path from novice to official taster, her commitment is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge.
A passionate Extra Virgin Olive Oil taster, Gill Lanham’s tasting experience started in 2019. Since then, her love for EVOO grew and 2021 saw her enrol in an introductory Olive Oil Tasting Course conducted by Aldo Mazzini.
The quartet is completed by Reni Hildenbrand, a venerated name in the South African olive oil landscape. With a legacy spanning decades, Hildenbrand’s role as a taster, panel leader, and educator encapsulates the commitment that propels the industry forward.
On Friday, 8 September the winners of the 18th SA Olive Awards will step into the limelight. An event that blends tradition, innovation, expertise, and celebration, it promises to be a defining moment for South Africa’s olive industry.
- For the latest updates and to follow the journey, visit the SA Olive website and join the conversation on Instagram and Facebook.
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