Exploring the Tradition and Quality of South African Olive Oil
South Africa may be known for its world-class wines, but its olive oil industry is gaining global recognition for its exceptional quality, rich tradition, and artisanal craftsmanship. Nestled in the sun-drenched valleys of the Western Cape, the country’s olive oil producers are dedicated to creating cold-pressed, extra virgin olive oils that rival the best in the world.
If you’re a food lover, traveller, or olive oil enthusiast, South Africa offers a variety of farms and tasting experiences where you can explore the nuances of locally produced olive oil, learn about the production process, and indulge in fresh, farm-to-table flavours.
The Legacy of Olive Oil Production in South Africa
The history of olive oil in South Africa dates back to the 17th century, when the first olive trees were planted by Dutch settlers in the Cape. Over the centuries, the industry has evolved, with South African producers focusing on sustainable farming, quality extraction methods, and diverse cultivars that showcase the region’s unique terroir.
Today, South African olive oils are recognized internationally, winning awards at prestigious competitions such as the NYIOOC World Olive Oil Competition and the SA Olive Awards. With an emphasis on cold extraction and minimal processing, local producers ensure their oils retain their pure, fresh, and complex flavours—perfect for drizzling over salads, dipping with artisanal bread, or enhancing gourmet dishes.
Best Places to Taste Olive Oil in South Africa
If you’re eager to experience South Africa’s finest extra virgin olive oils, these top farms and tasting rooms offer immersive experiences that celebrate the country’s olive oil heritage.
1. Morgenster Estate
Morgenster is one of South Africa’s most esteemed olive oil producers, with a legacy of Italian-inspired olive oil making dating back to 1711. Their award-winning extra virgin olive oils are cold-pressed from a variety of cultivars, including Frantoio, Coratina, and Leccino.
Tasting Experience: Enjoy a guided tasting at their elegant estate, where you can sample olive oils, balsamic vinegars, and even premium wines. Their expert guides walk you through the flavour profiles, aromas, and culinary pairings of each oil.
📍 Location: Somerset West, Western Cape
2. Chaloner
Located in the picturesque Blaauwklippen Valley, Chaloner is renowned for producing high-quality extra virgin olive oils, artisanal preserves, and fine foods. Their oils are crafted with a strong commitment to organic farming and sustainability, ensuring a pure, flavourful product that captures the essence of the Cape terroir.
Tasting Experience: A visit to Chaloner offers the chance to sample their range of exceptional olive oils, including their robust and peppery flagship blend. You’ll also get to explore their gourmet preserves, tapenades, and balsamic reductions, making for a truly indulgent food-tasting experience.
📍 Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
3. Tokara Olive Estate
Tokara, famous for its premium wines, is also home to one of the best olive oil estates in the country. With groves spread across the Simonsberg mountains, Tokara produces extra virgin olive oils that are bold, peppery, and rich in polyphenols.
Tasting Experience: Their tasting room offers side-by-side wine and olive oil tastings, where guests can enjoy a sensory journey through the best of the Cape’s flavours. Their flagship oils, such as the Mission and Frantoio blends, pair beautifully with their wines.
📍 Location: Stellenbosch, Western Cape
4. Kloovenburg Wine & Olive Estate
Kloovenburg is a small, family-owned estate in the charming town of Riebeek Kasteel, known for its delicate yet flavorful olive oils. They focus on hand-harvesting and traditional pressing methods, ensuring high-quality oils with fruity and herbaceous notes.
Tasting Experience: Their tasting room offers an interactive experience, where visitors can blend their own olive oil, sample different varieties, and even explore their luxurious range of olive-based skincare products.
📍 Location: Riebeek Kasteel, Western Cape
5. Willow Creek Olive Estate
Willow Creek is a globally recognized olive oil producer, consistently winning top awards for its extra virgin olive oils. Their oils are celebrated for their balanced flavors, ranging from mild and buttery to robust and peppery.
Tasting Experience: Visitors can tour the olive groves, taste a selection of olive oils, and learn about the art of food pairing. Their flagship Directors’ Reserve is a must-try for anyone who appreciates a rich, full-bodied olive oil.
📍 Location: Nuy Valley, Western Cape
Why South African Olive Oil is Special
What sets South African olive oils apart is their exceptional freshness, high-quality farming techniques, and dedication to sustainable production. The country’s Mediterranean-like climate, combined with its fertile soils and diverse olive cultivars, results in oils that are vibrant, aromatic, and rich in health benefits.
- Cold-extracted for maximum purity
- Free from additives or chemical processing
- High in antioxidants and heart-healthy polyphenols
- Sustainably farmed with minimal environmental impact
Plan Your Olive Oil Tasting Adventure
Whether you're a foodie, a home chef, or simply someone who appreciates artisanal craftsmanship, visiting South Africa’s top olive oil estates is a sensory journey you won’t want to miss. From bold, peppery oils to smooth, buttery blends, each tasting experience offers something unique and delicious.
Next time you’re in the Cape Winelands, make sure to add an olive oil tasting to your itinerary. It’s the perfect way to explore South Africa’s rich culinary traditions, support local producers, and discover the golden goodness of extra virgin olive oil.
