Every fall at Frog Hollow Farm, there’s a moment we look forward to with great anticipation: the return of our freshly pressed olive oil from the mill. Known in Italy as Olio Nuovo, or “new oil,” it’s the most vivid and vibrant expression of olive oil you can experience, and it’s only considered “new” for about three months after being pressed. With its vibrant green hue, bold aroma, and a flavor that practically leaps off the tongue, Olio Nuovo is prized by chefs, home cooks, and food lovers alike.
Unlike oil that’s been stored and mellowed over time, Olio Nuovo is alive with freshness. Think of it like a warm loaf of bread straight from the oven; you know there’s something rare and fleeting about enjoying it in its prime. As soon as the oil comes back from the mill, our team gathers to taste it. Each year’s oil is different, shaped by weather, soil, and the season’s rhythm, and we savor the unique personality of every press. This year, you’ll find notes of Granny Smith apples, matcha, and Cavolo Nero-Tuscan kale with a peppery finish that olive oil lovers relish.
Flavor at Its Peak
The joy of Olio Nuovo is that it tastes unlike any other olive oil you’ve had. It’s bright green, with an intensity that dances on your palate. The peppery kick may even catch you in the throat—a sign of its freshness and healthful properties. For those accustomed to softer, more neutral oils, Olio Nuovo can be a revelation. Very quickly, you’ll find yourself pouring it on everything: torn hunks of rustic bread, roasted vegetables, crisp salads, and even scoops of vanilla ice cream.
Chef Mario recommends using Olio Nuovo as generously as possible while it’s in season. Pair it with simple foods that allow its character to shine: grilled bread, cannellini beans, seared meats, steamed greens, or fresh cheeses. Its bold, almost kale-like quality makes it a natural complement to hearty fall and winter dishes. And because its flavor is at its peak right now, Olio Nuovo transforms everyday meals into something memorable.
Health Benefits in Every Drop
Beyond its extraordinary taste, Olio Nuovo is also at its nutritional best. Pressed early in the season, it holds the highest levels of polyphenols of its shelflife, which are compounds that act like antioxidants in the body. These not only contribute to the oil’s vibrant, herbaceous flavor but also support heart health, reduce inflammation, and protect cells from damage. Olive oil is celebrated for lowering LDL cholesterol while raising HDL, and fresh-pressed Olio Nuovo brings those benefits in their most potent form.
A Seasonal Celebration
As Chef Mario often reminds us, Olio Nuovo is meant to be enjoyed right away. This isn’t an oil to save for a special occasion—it is the special occasion. Use it liberally, gift it to friends and family, and let it be a centerpiece of your holiday cooking. With time, the oil will mellow, maintaining its quality and flavor notes, but right now it’s at its freshest and most flavorful.
We are thrilled to share that this year’s Olio Nuovo has officially arrived—bright, bold, and fresh from the mill. It’s ready to enjoy, and we invite you to make it part of your seasonal table. Order your bottle today and taste the first press of the year for yourself!