FAQs – Hostalets Farm
1. About extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
What is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)?
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is the natural juice of olives obtained solely through mechanical processes, without refining or chemical treatments.
To be considered extra virgin, it must meet strict quality criteria, such as an acidity of less than 0.8% and a total absence of flavor defects.
Extra virgin olive oil retains the natural aromas, antioxidants, and health benefits of the olive. If you'd like to discover our product, you can visit our organic extra virgin olive oil shop. .
What is the difference between virgin olive oil and extra virgin olive oil?
The difference lies in the quality of the olive oil .
Extra virgin olive oil is the highest category: it has no sensory defects and an acidity of less than 0.8%.
Extra virgin olive oil is also obtained through mechanical processes, but it may have minor defects in aroma or flavor.
That's why extra virgin olive oil is the preferred oil in Mediterranean cuisine and gourmet cooking. You can learn more about our organic Arbequina extra virgin olive oil. .
What does the acidity of olive oil mean?
The acidity of olive oil indicates the amount of free fatty acids present in the oil.
The lower the acidity , the better the condition of the olives and the processing.
In extra virgin olive oils, the acidity must be less than 0.8% , although premium oils usually have much lower values.
What is an early harvest olive oil?
An early harvest olive oil is obtained from olives picked at the beginning of the season, when the fruit is still green.
This type of oil usually has a greater aromatic intensity, a higher concentration of antioxidants, and fresher, more complex flavors.
Early harvest oils are highly valued in haute cuisine and Mediterranean cuisine.
2. Flavor and characteristics of the oil
What does Arbequina olive oil taste like?
Arbequina olive oil is one of the most appreciated varieties in Mediterranean cuisine.
It is characterized by a smooth, fruity and elegant profile, with notes reminiscent of fresh almond, green tomato, grass and apple.
This type of oil is ideal for using raw, in salads, or on the classic bread with tomato. You can discover our organic Arbequina olive oil from Priorat. in the online store.
Why does olive oil sting in the throat?
A tingling sensation in the throat is a typical sign of a quality extra virgin olive oil .
This effect is due to the presence of polyphenols , natural antioxidant compounds found in olives.
The higher the concentration of polyphenols, the greater the characteristic spiciness of the oil.
What does it mean for an oil to have notes of tomato or almond?
When we talk about notes of tomato, almond or grass , we are describing the aromatic profile of the oil.
These aromas appear naturally depending on the olive variety, the climate, and the soil where the olive trees grow.
The Arbequina variety usually offers soft, fresh and balanced aromas.
How to taste olive oil at home?
To taste olive oil at home, simply follow a few easy steps.
Pour a small amount of oil into a glass, warm it slightly with your hand to release the aromas, bring it close to your nose and perceive its nuances. Then take a small sip and spread it throughout your mouth.
A good extra virgin olive oil should have a balance between fruitiness, bitterness and spiciness .
3. How to choose a good olive oil
How to choose a good extra virgin olive oil?
To choose a good extra virgin olive oil, it is advisable to consider several aspects: origin of the oil, olive variety, harvest date, designation of origin and method of production.
Oils produced in small batches often offer greater authenticity and quality. You can buy extra virgin olive oil online. directly from our store.
How can you tell if an olive oil is of good quality?
A quality olive oil is recognized by its fresh aromas, the balance between fruity, bitter and spicy, the clearly indicated origin and a recent harvest.
Oils with protected designation of origin or organic production usually offer a greater guarantee of quality.
Why are some olive oils more expensive than others?
The price of olive oil depends on several factors: the quality of the olive, the time of harvest, the production yield, and the processing method.
Premium oils are usually produced in small quantities and with greater care, resulting in a more complex, balanced, and exclusive product.
Which is the best extra virgin olive oil?
The best extra virgin olive oil is that made with fresh olives, through mechanical extraction and with careful control of the entire process.
Factors such as the olive variety, the origin of the crop, the time of harvest and the processing method determine its quality.
Oils produced in small batches and with clearly identified origins often offer greater authenticity and character. You can discover our selection in the organic extra virgin olive oil shop . .
4. Cook with olive oil
Which olive oil is best for salads?
For salads, a mild and aromatic extra virgin olive oil is recommended.
Arbequina olive oil is ideal because it enhances the flavor of the ingredients without overpowering the dish. You can discover different options in our extra virgin olive oil shop. .
What is the best oil for bread with tomato?
The best oil for bread with tomato is an extra virgin arbequina olive oil .
Its smooth and fruity profile pairs perfectly with ripe tomatoes and toasted bread.
Which olive oil should I use for cooking or frying?
Extra virgin olive oil is one of the most stable oils for cooking.
It withstands high temperatures well and retains its properties better than many refined oils. That's why it's the traditional oil in the Mediterranean diet .
What pairings work best with Arbequina olive oil?
Arbequina oil combines especially well with bread with tomato, salads, vegetables, fish and soft cheeses.
Its aromatic profile enhances the ingredients without overpowering them.
5. Oil preservation
How to properly store olive oil?
To keep olive oil in good condition, three factors must be avoided: light, heat, and air.
It should be stored in a cool, dark and dry place, always tightly closed to protect its aromas and properties.
Does olive oil expire?
Olive oil does not expire like other foods, but it does lose properties over time.
It is generally recommended to consume it within 18–24 months after harvest to enjoy its full aroma and flavor.
How long does olive oil last once opened?
Once opened, the oil can be stored for several months if kept tightly sealed and protected from light and heat.
To fully enjoy its aroma and flavor, it is recommended to consume it within 3–6 months .
6. Buying olive oil online
Where to buy quality extra virgin olive oil?
To buy a good extra virgin olive oil, it is advisable to choose producers who control the entire process: cultivation, harvesting and production.
Oils with a protected designation of origin , organic production, and a clear origin generally offer a greater guarantee of quality. You can buy organic extra virgin olive oil directly from our online store. .
What size bottle of olive oil should I choose?
The ideal size depends on consumption.
The 500ml bottles are perfect for enjoying fresh oil and preserving its qualities. You can see all the options in our extra virgin olive oil shop. .
7. Shipments
How long will it take for my order to arrive?
Delivery times depend on the destination.
In mainland Spain , the estimated delivery time is 24–48 working hours .
In the Balearic Islands , the estimated delivery time is 48–72 working hours .
In Portugal , the estimated delivery time is 2–3 business days .
In Europe , the estimated delivery time is 3–5 business days .
In the United States and Canada , the estimated delivery time is 5–10 business days .
In Asia and Oceania , the estimated delivery time is 7–15 business days .
You can find all the information in our shipping policy. .
How can I track my order?
When your order leaves our warehouse you will receive an email with the tracking number .
From that link you can check the shipment status in real time. If you have any questions, you can contact our team. .
Do you ship internationally?
Yes. We ship to most countries in Europe, as well as the United States, Canada, and select destinations in Asia and Oceania.
For more information, please contact our team.
Are there any customs fees?
Yes. Shipments outside the European Union may be subject to tariffs, import taxes, or customs duties according to the regulations of the destination country.
These costs are not included in the shipping price and must be paid by the customer, if applicable. You can find more information in our shipping policy. .
8. Payments
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept various secure payment methods: credit or debit card, PayPal, and bank transfer.
All payments are made through secure platforms to protect your data.
Is my purchase safe?
Yes. All purchases use encrypted payment systems that guarantee the protection of your personal and banking data.
9. Returns
Can I return a product?
Yes. You can return your order within 15 days of delivery , provided the product is in perfect condition and in its original packaging.
To initiate a return, simply contact our team. indicating the order number.
What happens if I receive an incorrect or defective product?
If you receive an incorrect or damaged product, we offer a free replacement .
Please contact our customer service department within 7 days of receiving the order , indicating the order number and, if possible, attaching a photograph of the product.
Can't find the answer you're looking for?
If we haven't answered your question in this section, you can contact our team and we'll be happy to help you.
You can also visit our online store for organic extra virgin olive oil to discover all our products.
Shipments of extra virgin olive oil – Finca Hostalets
At Finca Hostalets we work to ensure you receive your order of organic extra virgin olive oil quickly, safely and without surprises.
All orders are carefully prepared in our warehouse and shipped with reliable courier companies , which allow real-time shipment tracking.
Once your order has been shipped, you will receive an email with the tracking number , so you can check the delivery status at any time.
Order preparation
Orders are normally prepared within 24 business hours of payment confirmation.
During periods of high demand, promotions or special campaigns, preparation time may be slightly extended.
Peninsular Spain
Free shipping
Estimated delivery: 24–48 business hours
Balearics
Estimated delivery: 48–72 business hours
Shipping cost: €8.90
Free on orders over €60
Portugal
Estimated delivery: 2–3 business days
Shipping cost: €10
Free on orders over €100
Europe
We ship to most European countries.
Estimated delivery: 3–5 business days
Shipping cost: €10
United States and Canada
Estimated delivery: 5–10 business days
Shipping cost: €45
Free shipping on orders over €300
Asia and Oceania
Estimated delivery: 7–15 business days
Shipping cost: €86
Customs and taxes
Shipments outside the European Union may be subject to tariffs, import taxes or customs duties according to the regulations of the destination country.
These costs are not included in the shipping price and must be paid by the customer if applicable.
Order tracking
All orders include online tracking .
When your order leaves our warehouse you will receive an email with the tracking link , which will allow you to check the status of the shipment at any time.
If you have any questions, you can contact our team .