Picual Single Variety

Origin and History

• Picual (pronounced as PI-KU-AL) derives its name from the Spanish word “pico”, meaning “pointed”, which refers to the olive’s distinctive shape.
• Predominantly found in Southern Spain, Picual covers up to 50% of Spain’s crops, spanning over 645,000 hectares (1.6 million acres), mainly in Córdoba and Jaén, where Reinos de Taifas is based.
• The village of Martos in Jaén is renowned for its widespread Picual trees, earning the variety the alternate name “Marteña”.

Picual Olive Characteristics

• Picual olives are medium to large-sized, averaging 3.2 grams.
• They are known for their high polyphenol content (between 300 and 700 ppm), which offers protection against certain medical conditions.
• The olives are rich in oil, resulting in one of the best yields among olive varieties, contributing to 25% of the world’s olive oil production.
• Picual olives have extraordinarily high stability, ensuring excellent oil preservation.

Flavour Profile

• Picual extra virgin olive oil (internal link EVOO) is known for its intense flavour and aroma, adding depth to dishes.
• It leaves a peppery prickling sensation in the mouth a few seconds after consumption, making it ideal for those who prefer robust flavours.

Health Benefits

• Picual olives’ high polyphenol content contributes to the oil’s antioxidant properties, helping fight inflammation and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
• The oil’s stability ensures it retains its health benefits over time, making it a reliable source of healthy fats and nutrients.

Culinary uses

• Picual EVOO is versatile, excelling in frying due to its high stability and rich flavour.
• It can also add a robust finish to salads, soups, and other dishes.
• The intense flavour of Picual makes it a favourite for those looking to add depth and complexity to their culinary creations.

Food pairing

• Picual pairs well with bold, hearty dishes like grilled meats and roasted vegetables.
• Its robust flavour complements strong cheeses like aged Manchego and can enhance the taste of spicy or heavily seasoned foods.

Testimonials

When are Picual olives ripe?

• The maturation of Picual olives begins in early October and lasts until January, with the exact timing varying yearly based on weather conditions.
• Harvesting typically occurs between December and February when the fruits reach their optimal maturity.
• Reinos de Taifas is dedicated to sustainable farming practices, ensuring the health of our olive trees and the environment. Learn more on our sustainable farming page.

• Our farm’s production depends on weather conditions, limiting stock availability to meet high demands.
• To maintain the oil’s quality, Reinos de Taifas store it in special tanks and bottle it in small batches to ensure freshness for our customers.