Local producer OLI NOVEMBRE

 “The idea of having created our own olive oil may not be remarkable... but the result certainly is.” That’s how the Mas family introduces Oli Novembre, an organic extra virgin olive oil made using olives from the family estate, Son Elsebitx, in Petra (Mallorca), where respect for the land for the native flora and fauna is absolute.

Achieving organic certification was a particular goal for Marta Mas. Today, Oli Novembre has been certified by the Balearic Council of Organic Agricultural Products and forms part of the Association of Organic Producers. Not even a poor harvest has tempted them to use chemical products – it would be too much of a compromise.

The story of Oli Novembre began in 2008 when Marta’s father, Guillem Mas, retired at the same time as the estate’s amitgers (sharecroppers). So Guillem thought about what to do with his part of Son Elsebitx, the family estate that dates back to the 16th century. “What if we plant olive trees?” No sooner said than done: 2.500 trees. When it came to harvest the olives, he asked: “What if we do it ourselves?” One of his five children, Marta, said “let’s give it a try” and decided to join him on the new venture. She left her job in advertising and graphic design, and hasn’t looked back.

Oli Novembre Ecológico, the company’s organic olive oil, which falls under the Oli de Mallorca designation of origin, uses 100% Arbequina olives. This variety, which adapts very well to arid terrain, brings a highly characteristic fruity aroma, a green-yellow colour, and the opaque tone that is to be expected of unfiltered oil.

The olive harvest begins in late October and can last until mid-November, hence the name given to the oil (“It’s also the month when my father was born,” says Marta). On the same day that the olives are picked, they are taken to the mill to be pressed there and then, to preserve all their properties, and the first cold extraction is made, in order to preserve the quality and ensure maximum acidity, which in this case never exceeds 0.5º.

Marta and Guillem look to the sky, hoping for good weather, as they manage their land with a commitment to local culture and the traditional landscape, with a heartfelt desire for the islands’ hotels and restaurants to be serving local produce.

To visit the estate and to taste their oil, just give them a call. They’ll be sure to whip you up a tasty pa amb oli.