Category: Blog

Some awards measure what’s in the bottle. Others, for a moment, take the measure of an entire journey: nearly thirty years of work, early harvests and the belief that something of world-class quality can be created from Istrian soil.

In 2025 we entered our oils in three international competitions – the very ones this story is about. Over the past few weeks the results have come in, and from three different corners of Europe each has brought recognition that means a great deal to us. Every one of them tells the same story in its own way.

Florence and Il Magnifico: Hospitality as Part of the Story

In the historic Certosa monastery in Florence, as part of the prestigious Il Magnifico – European Extra Quality Olive Oil Award, our olive mill in Vodnjan was named the best olive oil tourism experience in Europe for the third year running, with the “Best Olive Oil Hospitality in Europe” award.

This recognition means a great deal to us, because it celebrates not only what’s in the bottle, but everything around it: the way we lead every guest through the olive groves, the mill and a tasting where we show them how to recognise true, authentic extra virgin olive oil. For us, oil has never been just a product – it’s an experience to be shared.

We’re also especially pleased with how our Romano oil performed. It reached the finals for the Best European EQOO 2026 award and earned three stars — the highest honour this competition awards. It’s further proof that Istrian oil has something to say on the European stage.

Lake Garda and Leone d’Oro: Gold Received by the Second Generation

At the prestigious international Leone d’Oro competition on Lake Garda, our Romano oil took 1st place in the Blend International category. But what makes this award truly special isn’t the gold alone.

What makes it special is that Lorenzo, Tedi’s son, accepted it in person.

Nearly thirty years ago, Sandi and Tedi set out on this path with plenty of dreams, plenty of uncertainty and a great deal of hard work. Step by step, harvest by harvest. Today, as the second generation stands on that stage and accepts the award on behalf of the whole family, the feeling is hard to put into words. This is not an award for a single oil — it’s confirmation that the story is carrying on exactly where it began.

Der Feinschmecker: Istra Takes 3rd Place Among the World’s 100 Best Oils

Der Feinschmecker is one of Germany’s leading gourmet magazines, and its olive oil award — the Olio Award — has run since 2003 and is now regarded as one of the most rigorous and influential in the field: highly respected in Germany, and an important reference in Greece and Italy too.

At this competition our blends Istra and Organic ranked among the 100 best olive oils in the world, with Istra earning an impressive 3rd place.

Recognition like this carries particular weight, because it comes from a country that deeply values fine food, authenticity and quality. To be counted among the best is a great honour — and confirmation that our dedication to detail, to organic production and to constantly raising the bar on quality is worth it. We’re especially glad that Istra and Organic, once again, showed the true character of Istrian varieties and everything we try to convey through each bottle.

The Chiavalon Philosophy: Three Awards, One Root

At first glance these are three different awards — for our hospitality, for the quality in every bottle and for a place among the world’s finest oils. Yet all three come from the very top of the European and global stage, and all three share the same root:

Behind each of them lie years of dedicated work, early harvests and the precise processing of the fresh fruit within just a few hours. We use advanced technology in which precision and purity always come first. And behind it all stands a team of people who believe in the same philosophy: that honouring tradition and embracing the new, both rooted in Istrian soil, give rise to extra virgin olive oil of the highest quality. Awards are not the goal. They are a sign that we’re on the right path.

Thank You for Being Part of the Story

Thank you to everyone who has followed our journey, supported us and believed in our story for almost thirty years. These awards belong just as much to our team, our family and every guest whose visit to Vodnjan has helped shape this path.

And to those of you just discovering us, we invite you to taste the oils behind these awards — whether at our mill in Vodnjan or in our online shop. The best of Istria is waiting for your table.

Some visits are special not because of who arrives, but because of what they represent.

This week, we had the pleasure of welcoming renowned British adventurer, television presenter, writer and environmental advocate Ben Fogle to Chiavalon as part of his visit to Istria.

As one of the destinations included in his journey through the region, we were honoured to share with him a glimpse of our story, our values and our passion for olive growing. Known around the world for exploring places and people who live closely connected to nature, Ben spent time discovering the landscapes, traditions and gastronomy that make Istria such a unique destination.

During his visit to Chiavalon, he learned about our family’s journey, our organic olive groves and the philosophy that has guided our work for generations. Together, we discussed the relationship between agriculture, sustainability and the preservation of local heritage – topics that resonate strongly with Ben’s own work and personal interests.

Of course, no visit to Chiavalon would be complete without an olive oil tasting.

One of the highlights of the visit was the opportunity to introduce Ben to the world of professional olive oil tasting. We were especially proud that he experienced his very first olive oil tasting at Chiavalon. Through carefully guided sensory evaluation, he discovered how aromas and flavours reveal the quality, freshness and character of extra virgin olive oil, how different olive varieties express themselves through distinct sensory profiles, and how trained tasting can uncover the story behind every bottle.

For many people, olive oil is simply an ingredient. For us, it is a living expression of nature, terroir and craftsmanship. Sharing this perspective with Ben and watching him explore the nuances of premium extra virgin olive oil for the first time made the experience particularly memorable.

Ben also had the opportunity to taste our award-winning organic extra virgin olive oils and learn more about the care and dedication behind every bottle. From sustainable farming practices and early harvesting to advanced milling techniques, we shared the steps that allow us to consistently produce oils recognised among the world’s best.

The conversation also extended beyond olive oil. We presented our vision of a circular and responsible approach to production, including Chiavalon Olive Theory, our skincare collection created from award-winning extra virgin olive oil and powerful olive bioactive extracts. The project reflects our belief that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand, creating new value while respecting nature.

What impressed us most was Ben’s genuine curiosity and interest in the stories behind the products. Rather than focusing solely on awards and achievements, he was interested in the people, ideas and values that shape our everyday work.

His visit was a wonderful opportunity to showcase not only Chiavalon, but also the broader story of Istria – a region where tradition, nature, gastronomy and innovation come together in a truly unique way.

We are grateful that Chiavalon was one of the stops on Ben’s Istrian journey and proud to have shared with him a small part of what makes this region so special.

Thank you for visiting, Ben. We hope to welcome you back to Istria and Chiavalon again soon.

About Ben Fogle

Ben Fogle is a British broadcaster, adventurer, bestselling author and environmental advocate. He is best known for the television series New Lives in the Wild, in which he visits people living extraordinary lives in some of the world’s most remote locations.

Throughout his career, Ben has completed some of the world’s most demanding expeditions, including rowing across the Atlantic Ocean, summiting Mount Everest, reaching the South Pole in the Amundsen Omega 3 South Pole Race, and undertaking numerous endurance challenges, wilderness expeditions and conservation projects around the globe.

His work has inspired millions of people to reconnect with nature, embrace adventure and appreciate the stories of those who choose a different path in life. For this reason, it was a particular honour to welcome him to Chiavalon and share with him the flavours, landscapes and traditions of Istria.

For years, we believed the olive had more to give.

Years of dedicated work, research, and pushing the boundaries of quality in extra virgin olive oil production led us to a single realisation: the philosophy of a lifetime need not stop at olive oil.

Through our work with the olive, we learned about its power, its complexity, its potential. We explored every detail from fruit to processing always guided by the same question: how much more can we uncover if we look at the olive as a whole?

The Beginning of a New Story

And so, Chiavalon Olive Theory was born. Our premium dermo-cosmetic line, developed over nearly a decade, guided by the belief that the power of the olive can work not only from within, through nourishment, but also from without, through skincare.

A central role in bringing this story to life belongs to Emanuela Pinzan Chiavalon, who devoted years to researching, developing, and shaping every formula. By weaving together family heritage, a scientific approach, and a clear vision of modern skincare, Chiavalon Olive Theory emerged as a concept that sees the person as a whole; rooted in the belief that vitality, balance, and long-term quality of life are built from both within and without

This is not a story about wanting to create a cosmetics line. This is a story about what happens when decades of working with the olive open new questions and you decide to seek the answers.

More Than Natural Cosmetics

Chiavalon Olive Theory is a sophisticated dermo-cosmetic and biotechnological line that combines the unsaponifiable fractions of our award-winning Chiavalon Organic extra virgin olive oil, bioactive olive pomace extracts, and the most advanced next-generation active ingredients.

When we say sophisticated dermo-cosmetic line, we mean something beyond natural skincare. These are formulations developed through research, precision, and a contemporary approach to skin health where luxurious texture and sensorial pleasure meet active, meaningful performance.

Dermo-cosmetics bridges cosmetics and dermatology: it does not act only on the surface or aesthetically, but is designed to deeply support skin function, its protective barrier, and the long-term preservation of balance.

That is precisely why Chiavalon Olive Theory is not simply natural cosmetics inspired by the olive. It brings together olive expertise, biotechnological processes, and contemporary active ingredients in formulations developed for the skins real needs.

Why Olive Pomace?

Pomace is not a by-product. For us, it never has been. Olive pomace is the part of the olive that remains after oil processing; the skin, pulp, and stone. It is precisely this part that contains a very high concentration of valuable compounds: polyphenols, squalane, vitamin E, and antioxidants.

We have long known that the parts of the olive remaining after processing contain concentrations of valuable compounds that oil alone cannot offer to the same degree. That is why we do not see pomace as a something to discard, but as a source of functional molecules with genuine skincare potential.

Bioactive pomace extracts means that from these parts of the olive we isolate compounds that are not simply present in the formulation but they actively work: helping protect against oxidative stress, calming the skin, supporting renewal, and strengthening the skin barrier.

Fresh olive pomace is a naturally concentrated source of vitamins A, C, E and β-carotene, as well as minerals including magnesium, calcium, and zinc. Immediately after processing, without air exposure and at a controlled temperature, within hours it is sent to a specialised laboratory where its bioactive compounds are extracted and stabilised.

That extract then travels to Milan, to a cosmetic house behind some of the worlds most renowned brands. This is where our cosmetics are created, through a formula developed in close collaboration with a prestigious Italian laboratory.

How Chiavalon Olive Theory Formulations Work

Chiavalon Olive Theory combines a dermo-cosmetic and neuro-cosmetic approach to skincare, creating formulations that act on both the appearance and the feeling of the skin.

At the dermo-cosmetic level, the formulations deeply support hydration, strengthen the skin barrier, and protect the skin from oxidative stress; the kind we associate with skin ageing. The skin becomes visibly more hydrated, more elastic, and more even in tone.

At the neuro-cosmetic level, the formulations act on the surface mechanisms linked to skin sensitivity and reactivity. The feeling of tension is reduced, and the intensity of facial muscle movement is eased around the forehead, eyes, and lips. Active ingredients in the formula work on the surface tension mechanisms of the skin: that familiar sensation of tightness that the skin gradually loses over time. The result is what we call a botanical botox-like effect.

The Active Heart of the Olive

Alongside the olive pomace extracts, an equally important role is played by Chiavalon Organic extra virgin olive oil, more precisely, its unsaponifiable fraction (the fraction of the oil that does not convert into soap, and for this very reason retains the most valuable bioactive compounds).

Although unsaponifiable fractions represent only a small portion of the oil (approximately 0.5 to 2%), it is within them that the greatest concentration of biologically active compounds resides; responsible for its antioxidant, regenerative, and protective properties.

This fraction includes squalane, tocopherols (vitamin E), polyphenols, phytosterols, triterpenes, and other functional molecules that are especially valued in modern dermo-cosmetics.

Premium skincare formulations therefore consider this part of the oil its „active heart“. In the Chiavalon Olive Theory approach, we combine two powerful olive components: the unsaponifiable fractions of our extra virgin olive oil and the bioactive pomace extracts.

Together, they deliver a broader spectrum of bioactive compounds and open the door to formulations that go beyond classical natural cosmetics.

Alongside the pomace extract and our Organic extra virgin olive oil, the formulas also contain next-generation active ingredients such as peptides, hyaluronic acid of varying molecular weights, vitamin C, collagen, and other functional complexes developed to be more stable, more effective, and capable of acting deeper within the skin.

Their role is to support deep hydration, preserve the skin barrier, help protect against free radicals, and sustain a healthy skin appearance over time.

Philosophy: From Olive to Skin

The olive has been with us for generations. It has taught us patience, consistency, and respect for nature.

Chiavalon Olive Theory is the natural continuation of that story. It is the moment when we begin to see all that the olive truly is: as a fruit that yields a remarkable oil, whose pomace carries valuable bioactive compounds, and whose fragrance defines our landscapes and our lives.

The lines tagline is „From Olive Tree to Skin“ because that is, quite literally, what it is. Every product begins in our Istrian olive groves and ends on your skin.

All textures are silky, absorb quickly, and leave the skin feeling balanced, never heavy, yet deeply nourished. A subtle green tea fragrance completes the daily ritual, transforming skincare into a small moment of luxury.

Our first five products

The first five products of the Chiavalon Olive Theory line are five distinct points of connection between the olive and your skin. Each with a clear purpose, and each held to the same standard of quality.

Supreme Rejuvenating Cream

A luxurious dermo-cosmetic cream formulated with biomimetic peptides, purified collagen, hyaluronic acid, and an active antioxidant complex that targets wrinkles, skin tone, and elasticity. Through sophisticated lipid technology, the active ingredients penetrate deep into the skin with no feeling of heaviness.

Hydra Replenish Cream

An advanced moisturising cream inspired by skin-barrier philosophy, enriched with an 11-amino-acid complex, hyaluronic acid, and biomimetic NMF ingredients. The formula intensively restores the hydrolipidic skin barrier and provides long-lasting hydration and protection against urban stress and dehydration.

Velvet Hand Cream

A regenerative hand therapy cream combining Chiavalon olive oil, shea butter, avocado oil, and active botanical extracts to restore dry and damaged skin on the hands. The biomimetic texture creates a „second skin“ effect, delivering a silky sensation with no greasy residue.

Gentle Cleansing Emulsion

A dermo-affine cleansing emulsion that gently removes impurities and make-up without disturbing the skins natural balance. Enriched with antioxidant olive oil fractions and soothing botanical extracts, it leaves the skin soft, hydrated, and ready for further care.

Moisturizing Body Lotion

A luxurious body lotion formula combining Mediterranean botanical oils, biomimetic emollients, and antioxidant extracts for deep renewal and long-lasting skin hydration. The „dry-touch hydration“ texture delivers a silky-skin sensation paired with a sophisticated sensory experience.

We will be soon expanding the Chiavalon Olive Theory line with new products:

Advanced Hydra Plump Serum

A high-performance serum for intense hydration and a plumping effect, formulated with purified hyaluronic acid, a biomimetic NMF complex, and antioxidant fractions from Chiavalon extra virgin olive oil. The advanced molecular texture enables rapid absorption with no greasy film, while restoring elasticity, fullness, and a healthy glow.

Supreme Rejuvenating Serum

A sophisticated next-generation anti-age serum combining niacinamide, biomimetic peptides, and high-value unsaponifiable olive oil fractions for visibly smoother skin and a restored skin barrier. Neuro-cosmetic active ingredients target signs of skin stress and fatigue, delivering a lasting youthful glow and supporting a skin longevity approach to care.

Silken Dry Oil Radiance Elixir

A sophisticated dry oil elixir for face, body, and hair, developed through advanced lipid technology that enables instant absorption and a silky finish with no greasy feel. Rich in squalane, phytosterols, and antioxidant vitamins, it restores radiance, softness, and protection to the skin.

Refining Facial Micro-Polish

A high-performance facial micro-exfoliant that, through sophisticated exfoliation technology and bioactive olive micro-particles, renews skin texture, stimulates epidermal renewal, and restores a natural radiance effect.

Alongside the above collection, a professional wellness line has also been developed for the hospitality and SPA segment, including:

Phyto-Lipid Renewal Body Scrub

A professional body scrub treatment inspired by SPA rituals, using triple-grain exfoliation and a phyto-lipid complex to renew skin texture and stimulate natural regeneration. The formula removes dead skin cells, promotes microcirculation, and leaves the skin smooth, soft, and revitalised.

Molecular Glow Anti-Age Gel Mask

An advanced anti-age gel mask developed through molecular hydration technology for an instant glow, lifting, and skin revitalisation. Biomimetic active ingredients, hyaluronic acid, and an antioxidant complex act as a „skin infusion treatment“ restoring fullness, freshness, and youthful radiance to the skin.

Chiavalon Olive Theory: The Olive’s Next Chapter

Chiavalon Olive Theory was not born because we wanted to „have a cosmetics line too“.

It was born because, for years, we watched what the olive could give and realised we had not yet come close to unlocking its full potential.

It was born from research, patience, and the conviction that quality has no shortcuts.

Just like our oil.

Perhaps that is why Chiavalon Olive Theory is less a new product line and more the continuation of a journey that has been underway for decades.

A story in which we no longer see the olive merely as a source of extraordinary oil, but as a complete system of bioactive compounds whose potential we are only beginning to discover.

From olive tree to skin: the same philosophy of quality, just a new chapter.

Explore the Chiavalon Olive Theory collection and discover where the olive has taken us this time.

We are proud to announce that our family estate has once again received the prestigious “Best Olive Oil Hospitality in Europe” award. The award was presented as part of the international competition Il Magnifico – European Extra Quality Olive Oil Award, held in the historic Certosa venue in Florence. With this achievement, our olive mill in Vodnjan has been named the best olive oil tourism destination in Europe for the third consecutive year.

Il Magnifico is one of the world’s most respected extra virgin olive oil competitions, bringing together leading producers from across the globe. In addition to evaluating outstanding olive oil quality, it also recognizes those who successfully communicate olive growing and olive oil production as a complete and meaningful experience.

This recognition is especially significant to us because it confirms a philosophy we deeply believe in: extra virgin olive oil is not merely a product, but an experience meant to be shared.

Every guest who visits our olive mill in Vodnjan becomes part of our story. From walking through the olive groves and discovering the production process to learning how to taste olive oil like a professional, our goal is to offer an authentic and unforgettable journey into the world of olives.

The award for Best Olive Oil Hospitality in Europe is not only about extra virgin olive oil itself, but also about the way it is experienced. This is precisely why this recognition means so much to us – it validates the approach we have cultivated over the years: authenticity, knowledge, and a genuine desire to bring visitors closer to what we do.

This award belongs to our exceptional team, without whom none of this would be possible, and also to all of you who visit us from around the world and help shape this story with your presence.

In addition to this recognition, our olive oil Romano was selected as a finalist for the Best European EQOO 2026 award, further confirming the outstanding quality of Istrian olive oil on the European stage.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil as an Experience

Exceptional extra virgin olive oil is the foundation of our work, and every visit to our olive mill is designed to deepen the understanding of this remarkable product and enrich the overall experience.

We aim to introduce guests to the entire process from cultivation and harvesting to production while also demonstrating how olive oil can become part of everyday life. Even more importantly, we teach visitors how to recognize high-quality extra virgin olive oil, how to choose it, and how to store it properly to preserve its finest characteristics. In this way, the experience does not end when guests leave but it continues at home through more informed and conscious choices.

Through expert guidance, we share our family story and production process, while the tasting itself forms the heart of the experience. During the tasting, guests learn to identify aromas and flavors and understand the qualities that define exceptional extra virgin olive oil – its freshness, fragrance, and taste. We also share practical knowledge about food pairings, helping guests use olive oil more confidently and creatively in their everyday cooking. Whether you are just beginning to explore the world of olive oil or already have a strong interest in it, our experiences are designed for anyone who wishes to deepen their knowledge and appreciation.

Our Tours: A Blend of Education, Gastronomy and Experience

Taste Istria is the ideal introduction to our story and philosophy. This experience includes a walk through the olive groves, a guided tour of the olive mill, and an educational tasting during which guests learn to recognize the characteristics of premium extra virgin olive oil. The experience concludes with traditional local delicacies and authentic Istrian Malvasia wine.

Grand Tasting is an extended experience for those who wish to explore the world of olive oil and learn more about its culinary uses. Following a welcome drink, guests are guided through a tasting of our olive oils while learning how to identify the qualities of premium extra virgin olive oil and how to pair it with food. The tour also includes a rich selection of local delicacies and concludes with dessert and a local dessert wine.

MixOILogy is a unique experience that combines the world of olive oil with contemporary mixology. Alongside expert guidance and olive oil education, guests discover innovative ways of incorporating olive oil into original cocktails. Participants have the opportunity to create their own olive oil cocktails using spirits from local distilleries. This experience is perfect for those seeking something different, and each guest takes home a special souvenir: our branded cocktail shaker.

Istrian Tapas, Wine and Olive Oil

This gastronomic experience combines Istrian tradition with a contemporary approach. Through a guided and engaging experience, guests discover our family story as well as the expertise of sommelier Karin Rupena Perdec. The program includes a tour of the olive groves, a visit to the olive mill, and a professional tasting of our extra virgin olive oils. Guests learn how olive oil enhances food through creative tapas pairings and local wines. It is the perfect experience for anyone wishing to enjoy new flavors in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Discover and Choose Your Ideal Extra Virgin Olive Oil

In addition to our guided tasting experiences, which require prior reservation, you are also welcome to visit our olive mill in Vodnjan spontaneously. We will be happy to introduce you to our range of extra virgin olive oils, all of which can be tasted on site.

Our team is available to provide expert advice on the characteristics and quality of each product and help you choose the oils that best suit your preferences and needs, ensuring that you leave with complete confidence in your selection.