We are delighted to share that our olive mill in Vodnjan, Istria, has been honored with the Demeter certification. The certificate guarantees that we will now be able to provide processing services to all manufacturers with the Demeter certificate according to strict Demeter standards. This achievement is a reflection of our dedication to biodynamic farming and our efforts to work in harmony with nature. While we take pride in this recognition, it strengthens our resolve to continue nurturing the land with respect and care.
The Demeter certification, globally acknowledged for its strict criteria on biodynamic agriculture, reassures our commitment to producing olive oil that is not only of the highest quality but also sustainable. It’s a promise to our customers that our practices are environmentally responsible and our products are made with the utmost respect for the earth.
As we accept this certification, we are reminded of the journey we’ve undertaken and the continuous path we follow towards sustainability. We invite you to join us in celebrating this milestone, not as a boast, but as a shared commitment to the principles of biodynamic farming and the pure, rich flavors it brings to our olive oil.
As another year winds down, let’s take a moment to ponder, appreciate the wins, and plan for even brighter days ahead. Big shoutout to our fantastic team for rocking it this year and helping us level up in the business game.
Now, it’s time for a well-deserved break. Heads up: We’ll be in action, shipping packages until December 22nd, and back to the grind on January 15, 2024. While we’re hanging with our families and friends and relaxing, our webshop will be happily processing your orders, ready to roll when we’re back.
Wishing you all the good vibes this holiday season. May your days be filled with love, laughter, and all the good stuff. Here’s to achieving your dreams in 2024!
P.S. When you’re feasting at your holiday spread, may it be a feast fit for kings. If a splash of our oil adds that extra flavor, we’re stoked to be a part of your celebrations.
Big thanks for the love, loyalty, and support throughout the year. We’re gearing up to fit in your world again in the next one!
Another amazing weekend is behind us: the Chiavalon team attended the 17th edition of the Days of Young Olive Oil. Bringing together olive growers, oil producers, culinary experts, and enthusiasts of the liquid “green gold,” a powerful symbol of Istria, Istravirgin hosted olive growers who presented their young oils from the 2023 harvest. They showcased their application in masterclasses organized by our amazing friend Hrvoje Petrić.
Our family farm received a special award for Istrian quality, the IQ award, for extra virgin olive oil. At our booth, besides tasting our fresh blends from the harvest 2023, you could also experience special cocktails with Old Pilots gin, tonic, and olive oil that we designed in collaboration with the most renowned bartender in Croatia, Filip Pleteš.
Throughout the event, we enjoyed a rich program, oil presentations, tastings of fresh olive oils from the new harvest, and purchase opportunities. Expert lectures on the oil production process and top-notch gastronomic offerings were also featured. The Days of Young Olive Oil is an opportunity to remind everyone that olive oil is not just a market product but a vital ingredient in our traditional cuisine, a crucial element of Istria’s cultural identity.
One of the highlights of the festival was a panel discussion in which Mattia Barciulli, president of the association ‘Il Magnifico’ from Tuscany, Emiliano Biaggi, president of the Club EQOO (Extra Quality Olive Oils), and Maria Paola Gabusi, panel leader and president of the prestigious competition for olive oils ‘Leone d’oro’, spoke in superlatives about the quality of Istrian olive oils.
We also acknowledged the unquestionable excellence of Istrian extra virgin olive oils, as emphasized each year by numerous awards and recognitions from prestigious competitions and evaluations worldwide.
Thanks to the entire team who tirelessly worked to entertain and engage our guests at the booth, and also, a big thank you to all dear friends, colleagues, and partners who came to visit us.
We had a very complicated and difficult, rainy year behind us – which is hard for organic olive growers. Why is that? Because we need to be careful about the olive fly, the moth, and other pests. For example, the Olive moth this year developed the fourth generation in the olive groves for the first time, and for the first time, damages to the olive fruit were manifested as well. However, we managed to fight through in the end. The last thing that affected the harvest was the drought that started at the end of August.
What is the situation with the olive fruit?
The dry September resulted in very dry olive fruit at the beginning of the harvest season and difficult conditions for processing the fruit itself. This was particularly evident for olive growers who did not actively engage in the olive groves, meaning they did not treat olives on time via leaf with various amino acids, seaweed, and other ecological preparations permitted to improve the condition of the fruit.
How did the first month of processing go?
Regarding processing, in the first few weeks, we worked at a reduced capacity because the olive fruit was very dry, which slowed down the machines. On the other hand, the fact is that olive growers have more and more machinery and tools for harvesting each year, which speeds them up, while the capacities of our mill remain at a relatively similar level. However, despite the shortened harvest time, the rain allowed us to still deliver the quality of service we strive for, and part of that is processing the fruit within 24 hours of harvest.
What about the yields? Will there be more or less oil compared to last year?
The yields are very good even though the olives are dry. As they didn’t fill up with water, they weighed less. I estimate that in Istria there will be about 20-30% fewer olives compared to last year, 2022. The end of October sent us rain so the olives also filled up more with water. However, if we talk about the quantities of olive oil, with good yields, young plantations that have come to fruition, and new cooperatives we have contracted for this year, we will produce roughly the same amount of oil as in 2022.
Are you satisfied with the quality of extra virgin olive oil?
The quality is excellent, as you can already check for yourself because our blend “Mlado” was released to the market about ten days ago – it is a blend of extra virgin olive oil made in a limited edition by processing all olive varieties from the first three days of harvest.
How much longer will the olive harvest of 2023 last?
We have finished the harvest in our olive groves, we have still a few more cooperatives who need to finish the harvest in their groves. During this week, the olive harvest for the Chiavalon mill will end.
What comes next? Will the mill continue to operate?
That’s right, we will continue to provide processing services. We will process olives for our friends and fellow olive growers for a few more weeks. During this period, we will also be engaged in blending the varieties into perfect blends for our extra virgin olive oils which will be available for sale in the next few weeks.
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is a popular ingredient in Mediterranean cuisine, and it is widely recognized for its culinary and health benefits. It is derived from the mechanical pressing of the olives and is unrefined, which means it retains all of its natural antioxidants and nutrients. In this article, we will explore the various health benefits of extra virgin olive oil and how it can improve our overall health.
Health benefits of Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO):
Rich in healthy fats
Extra virgin olive oil is high in healthy monounsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of heart disease. It also contains small amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are essential fatty acids that our body needs but cannot produce on its own.
Contains powerful antioxidants
EVOO is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and phenolic compounds, which can help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and contribute to the development of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a natural process that helps our body fight infections and heal injuries. However, chronic inflammation can contribute to the development of chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer, and heart disease. EVOO contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in our body.
Now that we know top three health benefits from consumation this powerfoul natural oil, we will talk about dieseases and preventive options that EVOO can have:
May reduce the risk of heart disease
Several studies have shown that consuming EVOO can lower the risk of heart disease. One study found that people who consumed EVOO as part of a Mediterranean diet had a 30% lower risk of heart disease compared to those who followed a low-fat diet. Another study found that replacing saturated fats with EVOO can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, which is a risk factor for heart disease.
May improve brain function
EVOO is rich in polyphenols, which have been shown to improve brain function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. One study found that older adults who consumed a Mediterranean diet rich in EVOO had better cognitive function compared to those who followed a low-fat diet.
Can Help to Reduce the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
Extra virgin olive oil has been shown to help regulate blood sugar levels, which can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The healthy fats in the oil can also help to improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for maintaining healthy blood sugar levels.
May Help to Prevent Osteoporosis
Recent research has suggested that extra virgin olive oil may help to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. This is thought to be due to the high levels of healthy fats and antioxidants in the oil, which can help to improve bone health.
May help lower the risk of cancer
Some studies suggest that consuming EVOO may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer. The antioxidants in EVOO can help protect our cells from damage that can lead to cancer.
May help improve skin health
EVOO is rich in vitamin E and other antioxidants that can help protect our skin from damage caused by UV radiation and environmental toxins. It can also help improve skin hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
In conclusion, extra virgin olive oil is an incredibly healthy and versatile ingredient that offers many health benefits. From reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke to improving brain function and reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes, there are many reasons to include this healthy oil in your diet. So go ahead and drizzle some extra virgin olive oil on your salads, use it for cooking, or dip your bread in it – your body will thank you for it!
St. John’s Wort oil, also known as Hypericum oil, has been used for centuries to treat various wounds, scars, and insomnia. It also possesses antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties. We make it with our olive oil, and in this text, you will learn more about the healing properties of this miracle in a bottle.
St. John’s Wort, or Hypericum, is a plant that grows 30 to 70 centimeters tall along the edges of forests, in thickets, meadows, and hedges. It thrives during the summer, from May to September, and its flowers are harvested when in full bloom. The plant itself is used in various forms, such as teas or tinctures, and serves as a natural remedy for calming nerves, depression, headaches, and many other ailments. In the form of oil, which we are discussing today, it is used for skin problems.
What Can You Use St. John’s Wort Oil For?
Thanks to its potent anti-inflammatory properties, it helps with various skin issues such as dermatitis, promotes wound healing, reduces scars, treats acne, pimples, herpes, and hemorrhoids. It soothes irritated and sensitive skin, promotes natural cell renewal, reduces cell damage, and accelerates the healing of damaged skin. It is suitable for all skin types, and its main components are xanthones, quercetin, and flavonoids, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
You can use it to moisturize dry skin or for massages to alleviate muscle pain. It also promotes circulation and is known to alleviate sciatica, gout, and rheumatism. Additionally, it helps with various women’s issues, such as fungal infection caused by Candida Albicans.
How to Use St. John’s Wort Oil
For skin problems, apply the oil to the skin up to three times a day and be patient; over time, scars and wounds will fade. It is important to ensure that the oil does not come into contact with open wounds.
For insomnia, put 5 to 6 drops under the tongue before bedtime, and for women’s issues, the oil can be applied to internal parts of the body or added to a bath because it contains antimycotic ingredients.
It should be used with caution because St. John’s Wort oil is photosensitive, which means you should not expose your skin to sunlight after applying it, as it can cause burns.
Instead, use it after sunbathing to replenish skin moisture. It is recommended to apply it in the evening before bedtime and in the morning before sun exposure, after which you should thoroughly wash the treated area.
How We Produce St. John’s Wort Oil
We harvest the plants on dry, sunny days when the flowers are open (avoid picking after rain to prevent the flowers from being wet). After harvesting, we place the flowers in a previously cleaned and dried dark glass bottle, and then pour olive oil to cover all the flowers (maceration). We seal the bottle and leave it in the sun for several weeks. Then, we strain the oil into another bottle, and it is ready for use. High-quality St. John’s Wort oil will be red in color, and it should be stored in a dark place with a shelf life of up to two years. You can purchase it at our store located at Salvela 50 in Vodnjan.
In today’s world, more and more pet owners recognize the importance of proper nutrition and care for their four-legged companions. One ingredient that is increasingly being highlighted as beneficial for dogs’ health is extra virgin olive oil. This oil is not only tasty but also has numerous advantages for your dog’s well-being. In this article, we will explore findings supported by research and pet experts to better understand why extra virgin olive oil is good for dogs.
Olive Oil as a Source of Health for Dogs
A study published on Agroklub explores the importance of olive oil for dogs and their overall health. Here are several key reasons why you should consider incorporating extra virgin olive oil into your dog’s diet:
Rich in Antioxidants
Olive oil is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and polyphenols. These components help fight free radicals and protect your dog’s cells from damage. Additionally, antioxidants can contribute to better overall health and vitality for your pet.
Healthy Skin and Shiny Coat
Olive oil contains essential fatty acids that are crucial for healthy skin and a shiny coat in dogs. Regularly adding olive oil to their diet can help prevent dry skin, dandruff, and itching, making your dog’s skin soft and hydrated.
Improves Digestion
This oil also has a beneficial effect on a dog’s digestive system. Olive oil can help maintain balance in the intestines, promoting regular digestion and reducing the risk of constipation.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Olive oil possesses natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammatory processes in your dog’s body. This can be useful for pets suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
How to Include Olive Oil in Your Dog’s Diet
Adding olive oil to your dog’s diet can be simple and tasty. Here are a few tips:
Gradually introduce the oil: Start with small amounts and gradually increase to allow your dog’s body to adjust.
Quality is key: Purchase high-quality extra virgin olive oil to ensure it contains all the necessary nutrients.
Consult a veterinarian: Before changing your dog’s diet or adding new ingredients, always consult with a veterinarian to ensure it’s the best choice for your pet.
The harvest and olive oil production of 2022 and our dedication to producing the finest extra virgin olive oil and has resulted in a string of prestigious awards for our EVOO. Our commitment to quality and the use of traditional local olive varieties, such as buža, bianchera, rosignola, and carbonazza, combined with cutting-edge technology and modern ecological agricultural practices payed off.
At the esteemed Leone d’Oro International Olive Oil Competition, three of our EVOOs – Romano, Organic and Atilio showcased their brilliance by advancing to the finals in various international categories. Remarkably, all three of them achieved outstanding scores of 95 points and above and our EVOO Atilio was crowned as the best international monovarietal extra virgin olive oil of the entire competition.
Sol d’Oro: Organic took the show
Organic captured the spotlight at the Sol d’Oro International Competition, securing the coveted Sol d’Argento silver award in the Organic category. This recognition emphasizes our commitment to organic practices and highlights the remarkable quality of this special blend.
The New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC) again recognized our Ex Albis that received the prestigious Gold Award, marking the sixth consecutive year of success at this competition.
Our Ex Albis achieved the highest possible grade of three stars at the renowned competition Il Magnifico. This is an exceptional recognition and we are happy that for five consecutive years we have the highest possible grade.Moreover, Ex Albis was crowned the Best Extra Virgin Olive Oil of the North Adriatic area and ranked among the top six oils in all of Europe, cementing its status as a true gem in the industry.
Flos Olei: Three pints away from 100%
Flos Olei, the prestigious global guide to extra virgin olive oils, awarded Chiavalon’s oils an outstanding score of 97 out of 100. We are present in this specialized guide since the 2006.
At the BIOL International Competition, our special EVOO blend Istra DOP achieved the coveted “extra gold” distinction, further solidifying its position as a truly exceptional blend of extra virgin olive oil. Additionally, Organic received also the esteemed “extra gold” recognition, affirming our commitment to producing outstanding organic oils.
AIPO, the international regional association of olive oil producers claimed Organic blend with first place and awarded with the prestigious Gran Goccia d’Oro in the Biological category. Not only that, but our Organic was pronounced as the best extra virgin olive oil from Croatia. Furthermore, Istra DOP was a finalist and received the Goccia d’Oro recognition in the PDO-PGI category. Ex Albis won the Goccia d’Oro and Atilio Goccia d’Argento in the blend category.
In conclusion, we extend our deepest gratitude to every member of the Chiavalon team for their unwavering dedication, expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence. Their invaluable contributions and tireless efforts have played a pivotal role in our success.
We continue to be committed to striving for even greater heights in the coming year. Building upon the solid foundation laid by the Chiavalon team, we aim to continuously refine our processes, enhance our products, and exceed the expectations of our valued customers.
Vodnjan is a truly charming and small place that offers a lot – colourful streets, small squares, painted facades, and plenty of culture. In addition, almost every family produces their own wine and olive oil, and has a vegetable garden. However, the gastronomic offer in this small place is not so diverse, so we decided to make our subjective but approved list of restaurants worth visiting for lunch or dinner when you are in Vodnjan and the surrounding area, and when you have already tried everything Vodnjan has to offer (Stancija Buršić, Pizza & BBQ Buffalo).
This is one of the iconic places of Pula and Istrian gastronomy. Moris Civitico, the owner of the restaurant, took over the business from his parents with whom he worked in the restaurant since he was a child. His father still personally goes shopping and is always the first at the opening of the Pula fish market.
This restaurant exudes authenticity and tradition, and the type of cuisine is traditional with homemade ingredients, as we would say – the way our grandmothers used to cook. In recent years, Moris has introduced a slightly modern twist to his recipes, so this place continues to amaze us. Their wine list is extensive, and many labels are available by the glass. Moris and his staff are extremely friendly, so besides good food and wine, there is always a good atmosphere here. If you plan to eat in Pula, we definitely recommend this as an option.
P.S. Moris personally makes excellent desserts that you must try!
Located in an olive grove, this small stone tavern is the perfect place to enjoy a somewhat more traditional Istrian cuisine. Recently, the tavern was taken over by a young couple with years of hospitality experience – Annamaria and Ivor Kolić. They make homemade traditional pasta that you must try with game sauce or with homemade chicken. They specialize in meat cooked under the bell, game, and grilled steaks, and have various Istrian seasonal stews called “maneštra” on the menu that we recommend you try. This is also a place where you can taste excellent Istrian prosciutto.
The Lim Bay is known for its shellfish and fish farms, so this restaurant, located right at the source of seafood, is an ideal place to taste shellfish in all variations. Whether raw with a drop of our Romano olive oil, in buzara sauce, with pasta, or in risotto, you won’t go wrong. Enjoy raw Kvarner scampi, oysters, and fish with a view of the turquoise bay.
P.S. Don’t forget to have a glass of champagne and look around at the tables nearby because Tedi and Sandi are often here, so you might have a chance to toast with them 🙂
This small tavern has been a real surprise in the last few years. Located in the small village of Orihi, amidst vineyards, this is a place where you have the opportunity to try local homemade specialities with a slightly different, more modern approach. Tamara, the owner and driving force behind this beautiful place, does the shopping every morning, so the food offered here is strictly local and seasonal. Their wine list is very good, and Tamara is an excellent connoisseur of wine, so we recommend that you trust her in choosing if you’re not sure what to choose exactly. This is an ideal place for a peaceful and romantic gathering in a beautiful setting, far away from the hustle and bustle.
This is one of the iconic seafood restaurants in the area of Pula. Recently, Žan Peruško took over the business of the restaurant from his father, and together with his team, introduced a modern approach to traditional ingredients. For decades, they have surprised many taste buds, and we believe yours will be satisfied as well. Our recommendation is definitely their widely-known pasta with lobster. In addition to daily and à la carte dishes, here you can surrender yourself to the hands of the chef who will guide you through an excellently designed tasting menu. Within the restaurant, there is also a tapas bar with burgers, tapas, spreads, and various snacks that are ideal for an evening with a glass of good wine. Speaking of wine, their wine list is truly impressive, and it is curated by one of the best Istrian sommeliers, Filip Savić.
This restaurant is located on the main square of the small fishing town of Fažana, just a few steps from the sea and with a view of the Brijuni National Park. This is a very touristy place, so there are large crowds in the summer. For a more intimate and peaceful atmosphere, we definitely recommend visiting this place outside the main tourist season. Primarily focused on fish, this restaurant cooks typical dishes with Istrian and seafood ingredients, so we recommend trying the daily catch of fish or pasta and risotto with seafood.
This restaurant is hidden in a pine forest near the Pula bypass and is known for its homemade Istrian cuisine. Toni Draguzet, the owner of this restaurant, is the second generation of a successful gastronomic family. If you are looking for traditional cuisine, a good piece of meat, or homemade pasta, this is the place for you. They often offer fish dishes as well, but we definitely recommend trying their veal shank and the whole range of desserts that Toni personally prepares…you won’t regret it. The restaurant has a large terrace where live music is often played during the summer.
You may have already heard of chef David Skoko, but if you haven’t, it’s time to find out why David is a true media star in this area and why all seafood lovers adore this small traditional Istrian fishing tavern. Batelina’s main idea is to present guests with everything the fishing net brings out of the sea, from premium fish to small blue fish, dried fish roe (butarga), edible fish innards, bone marrow of large predators, and small shrimp that keep our sea clean. The Skoko family believes that for sustainable fishing and preservation of the ecological system, we should appreciate the complete catch, regardless of what is caught, provided that there is no fishing ban in place for a particular species.
We hope we helped with the selection. If you need any more insider information, feel free to contact us. It will be our pleasure to assist you. We also love to travel and appreciate when locals give us their recommendations, so this is the minimum we can do to help you make a choice when you’re in our area.
The Chiavalon family
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