Catalonia boosts world gastronomy through its quality olive oil

Catalonia was named World Region of Gastronomy 2021 by the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) due to its rich and varied culinary tradition, which fuses local ingredients, ancestral techniques and a deep connection with the territory. This recognition underlines the region's role as a worldwide gastronomic reference point, with a wide variety of local products, including extra virgin olive oil.

Catalonia is one of the main producers of olive oil in Spain, standing out especially for the variety of its oil, especially extra virgin olive oil of the Arbequina variety. This variety is highly appreciated for its smooth and fruity flavour, with hints of almond and apple, which makes it one of the most characteristic of the region.

In addition, Catalonia has five Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) that guarantee the quality of its oils: Terra Alta Oil, Baix Ebre-Montsià Oil, l'Empordà Oil, Siurana Oil, and Les Garrigues Oil. Each of these areas has its own identity and characteristics, based on the geography and climate of the region, resulting in oils with unique profiles.

Olive oil, along with other emblematic products such as peasant bread, tomatoes from the Garrotxa region and calçots, plays a crucial role in Catalan gastronomy, contributing to the creation of a Mediterranean cuisine full of flavour and tradition. The region has also promoted olive oil tourism, offering visitors the opportunity to explore olive mills, participate in tastings and discover the olive oil production process, further highlighting its heritage and the link between Catalans and this fundamental product.

In addition, the Government of Catalonia, through its ‘SOM Gastronomy’ initiative, has consolidated its commitment to olive oil and local gastronomy as a sponsor of the World Olive Oil Congress (OWC). This collaboration highlights Catalonia's role as a world reference centre for olive oil and its international promotion, contributing to the development of the sector and highlighting the quality of the oils produced in the region.

Thus, olive oil in Catalonia is not just an ingredient, but a symbol of the region's gastronomic identity, promoting both sustainability and the preservation of local culture, key elements for the development of the World Gastronomy Region Catalonia.