Tsounati
(Τσουνάτη, Mastoeidis, Matsolua, Athinolia)
Tsounati olive is a traditional variety primarily cultivated on the island of Crete, and is considered one of the oldest greek cultivars, known since Minoan civilization. It is well-known for its use in both olive oil production and as table olives, valued for its unique flavor and quality.
Tsounati olives are medium to large in size with an elongated, oval shape. When they mature, the olives turn from green to a deep purple or black color. The flavor of Tsounati olives is rich and fruity, with a well-balanced profile that includes a mild bitterness and a subtle peppery finish.
This makes them a versatile choice in culinary applications. The olive oil produced from Tsounati olives is highly prized for its superior quality. It typically has a robust, fruity aroma with notes of fresh herbs, green leaves, and sometimes a hint of tomato. Read more
The oil is known for its balanced taste, combining fruitiness with mild bitterness and a slightly spicy aftertaste. This makes Tsounati olive oil suitable for a wide range of culinary uses, including salad dressings, dipping, cooking, and finishing dishes.
The Tsounati olive tree is well-adapted to the Mediterranean climate of Crete, thriving in the island's warm, dry conditions. These trees are known for their resilience and ability to grow in rocky and less fertile soils. They produce a moderate to high yield of olives, which contributes to their popularity among local olive growers.
