The country’s best extra virgin olive oils (EVOOs) were in the spotlight this week as the 2025 SA Olive Awards crowned their champions at Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate in Wellington, Western Cape.
The annual event has become one of the biggest fixtures on Mzansi’s agri calendar, honouring not only producers but also the agri-workers, innovators, and partners who help grow this flourishing sector.
Heavyweights Babylonstoren, De Rustica, Willow Creek, Mardouw and Morgenster all scooped multiple gold medals for oils ranging from delicate to intense styles. Stand-out wins also went to Andante Olives in Porterville, Het Vlock Casteel, Lions Creek, Rio Largo, Tokara and Oudewerfskloof, among others.
For producers, these awards are more than medals. They are recognising that South Africa’s EVOOs now compete head-to-head with the best from Europe.
‘Rewarding hard work and authenticity’
Wendy Petersen, CEO of SA Olive, praised the winners and thanked the industry’s partners.
“The SA Olive Awards celebrate the entire industry’s commitment to quality and authenticity, rewarding the hard work of South African producers who elevate our EVOOs to a world-class standard,” Petersen said.
“We also celebrate the Agri-Worker Awards, which honour the dedication of those working behind the scenes, and extend our sincere thanks to our sponsors … whose support helps the awards to drive excellence, inspire innovation, and strengthen the industry.”
Related stories
- Rising demand fuels SA olive oil industry
- A taste of Ubuntu: Crafting quality olive oil propels Loyiso to the top
- SA Olive CEO charts course amid global challenges
Olive oil’s role in rural development
The Western Cape remains the heart of South Africa’s olive oil production, and the sector continues to grow in importance.
Darryl Jacobs, deputy director-general: agricultural development and support services at the Western Cape department of agriculture, reminded guests that the industry’s impact stretches far beyond farm gates.
“The olive industry represents a growing pillar of agriculture in the Western Cape. Beyond its economic significance, it also contributes to rural development, employment, and tourism. The SA Olive Awards reminds us of the unique value of this sector, and the importance of celebrating products that carry the heritage and story of South Africa’s soil.”
Retail giant Woolworths, a long-time supporter of SA Olive, used the platform to reinforce its commitment to showcasing local oils.
Claudia Pentasaib said, “For us, quality is non-negotiable. The SA Olive Awards showcase the best of the best, and we are proud to play a role in celebrating producers who embody the highest standards. These award-winning EVOOs remind consumers that South Africa produces oils equal to, and in many cases better than, those from traditional olive-growing countries.”
The night also recognised individuals, including the Agri-Worker of the Year Award winner, Felicia Mouries from Tokara, and honoured industry veteran Nick Wilkinson with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
As Petersen noted, the awards are about more than prestige: they are about building a sustainable future for the entire sector. From farmers and workers to sponsors and everyday South Africans drizzling EVOO over their salads, everyone has a stake in this proudly local success story.
READ NEXT: La Motte master baker rises to new heights and heads to Germany
