The Manzanilla Cacereña is a rare olive variety cultivated in Spain, known for producing high-quality extra virgin olive oil from the Sierra de Gata.
What characteristics distinguish it from other varieties? Let's discover the specific features of this secluded terroir.
Why is Manzanilla Cacereña unique?
Manzanilla Cacereña stands out due to four key elements:
- Low yield: low productivity, but highly concentrated
- Aromatic concentration: rich and balanced profiles
- Terroir adaptation: deeply linked to the Sierra de Gata
- Rarity: a secluded, rarely cultivated variety
A combination that gives rise to extra virgin olive oils with character.
1. A rare and local variety
The Manzanilla Cacereña is an endemic variety of the Cáceres region in Extremadura, and more specifically of the Sierra de Gata.
Cultivated for centuries in this preserved environment, it benefits from a climate and granitic soils that directly influence the quality of the oil produced.
Little known internationally, it remains today a secluded variety, sought after for its authenticity and character.
2. A complex aromatic profile
Extra virgin olive oil from Manzanilla Cacereña offers a rich and balanced aromatic profile.
It develops pronounced vegetal notes, with aromas of green tomato, fresh grass, and almond.
On the palate, it presents a slight bitterness and moderate pungency, signs of a fresh and structured oil.
3. Manzanilla Cacereña and polyphenols
Manzanilla Cacereña stands out for its naturally high polyphenol content, antioxidant compounds present in high-quality extra virgin olive oils.
These compounds contribute to the oil's structure, particularly through the bitterness and pungency on the palate, characteristic of fresh and well-extracted oils.
In Sierra de Gata, natural conditions—altitude, poor soils, and temperature fluctuations—favor this concentration. Rapid cold extraction then helps preserve these sensitive elements.
Polyphenols thus contribute to the oil's stability and the persistence of its aromas over time.
4. An exceptional terroir
The Sierra de Gata is a preserved territory, away from large areas of intensive agriculture.
The olive trees there are often old, cultivated according to practices respectful of the soil and the plant's natural rhythm.
This close link between variety and environment gives rise to oils with a strong identity.
5. A versatile olive
Manzanilla Cacereña is used both for olive oil production and as a table olive.
Its firm flesh and balanced taste make it a popular variety for culinary preparations and aperitifs.
How to use Manzanilla Cacereña in cooking?
It is ideal raw to enhance salads, grilled vegetables, fish, and white meats. Its oxidative stability also allows for use in gentle cooking.
Conclusion
Manzanilla Cacereña embodies a demanding approach to extra virgin olive oil: a rare variety, a preserved terroir, and precise know-how.
It is now one of the most secluded and high-quality olive varieties in Spain.
Discover our signature Manzanilla Cacereña extra virgin olive oils
