The Team Behind It All – from L to R: Simon Stuurman, Gaylin Stuurman, Kallie Frey, Ben Blou & Branwill Williams
SA Olive is exceptionally proud to share the news that yet another local South African extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) has won a top international award. De Rustica has just won first prize at the inaugural NOVA Awards 2026 in Spain for its Estate Collection Favolosa EVOO.
The NOVA Awards, a newly established international competition, recognise excellence in modern olive oil cultivars developed since the 20th century. Organised by leading industry bodies including the Spanish National Research Council (CSIC), Agromillora and Mercacei, the awards aim to benchmark quality and innovation in next-generation olive oil production.
Innovation continues to shape the global olive oil industry, as producers adapt to changing climates, evolving agricultural practices and the pursuit of ever higher quality standards. As with all agricultural sectors, the international olive industry is constantly testing and refining new cultivars and clones to improve both resilience and oil quality.
The international jury, which convened in Córdoba, Spain, awarded first prize to Estate Collection Favolosa EVOO, produced by De Rustica Olive Estate from the Favolosa cultivar. According to the jury report, the winning oil is characterised by “an intense fruitiness with aromatic notes reminiscent of green olive, green banana, green almond, basil, chamomile, green wheat and pine needles.” On the palate, it offers “a smooth, sweet entry, with medium, well-balanced bitterness and pungency; a herbal aftertaste with hints of green almond and endive; and an overall complex and highly persistent profile.”
Rob Still of De Rustica says: “De Rustica is delighted to win the overall first prize at the 2026 NOVA Awards for our Favolosa cultivar EVOO. This recognition affirms our commitment to innovation and our ongoing pursuit of exceptional quality.”
Wendy Petersen, CEO of SA Olive, says: “South African extra virgin olive oils continue to prove themselves among the best in the world. Awards like this highlight not only the innovation of producers like De Rustica, but also the consistent quality, care and craftsmanship that define our local industry. Research, development and innovation are important for the South African Olive industries sustainability and position in the global arena. It is encouraging to see South Africa recognised at this level in an international competition focused on the future of olive oil.”
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