Pilat Olive Oil

Pilat's olive oil production is a family-run boutique operation in Vipava, Slovenia, established by Igor and Lucija Petrič after 40 years in the food industry. The name Pilat draws from the initials of the family members: Igor, Lucija, Andreja, and Tinet. Their approach centres on returning to nature, with olives grown in a family grove on the sunny slopes of Nanos, where winds reach speeds of up to 200 km/h. The trees, including varieties Istrska Belica, Leccino, Maurino, and Leccio del Corno, have adapted through longer and stronger roots, contributing to the oil's fresh, piquant, bitter, and fruity notes. Production involves harvesting and pressing overseen by the family, with over 250 local residents assisting in production - from picking to bottling and design. Visitors can sample the oil at the on site olive bar by prior arrangement.