Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)

What does "highly phenolic" mean and why is this an important characteristic?

"Highly phenolic" means that the olive oil contains a particularly high number of polyphenols (natural antioxidants). These are responsible for its health benefits as well as its slightly bitter and peppery notes – a clear indicator of quality.

High-phenol olive oil is in a category of its own because it is made from early-harvested, unripe olives . These yield significantly less oil than ripe olives. Lower yield means higher production costs – but in return, you get a particularly potent, intense, and high-quality premium olive oil .

What does "extra virgin" olive oil mean?

Extra virgin olive oil is the highest quality grade. It is cold-pressed, has a very low acidity level (<0.8%), and impresses with its taste, aroma, and health benefits.

Where does your olive oil come from?

Our oil "The Governor" comes from ancient olive groves on Corfu and has been harvested by hand for generations.

Is your olive oil organic?

No, our olive oil does not carry an organic certification. All olive groves are strictly controlled and cultivated without chemical fertilizers or pesticides.

How should I store olive oil?

Store in a cool, dry, and dark place – ideally between 14–18 °C. Avoid direct sunlight and close the bottle tightly after each use.

Can I use your olive oil for frying?

Yes! Our high-quality EVOO is heat-stable and ideal for cooking, frying, and baking – especially at medium temperatures. According to scientific studies, olive oil is the only oil that does not develop harmful substances when heated and is therefore the safest oil for frying compared to others. To preserve its intense flavor, we recommend using it raw in salads, dips, or as a finishing touch.

Why does the oil sometimes taste spicy or bitter?

This is a sign of high quality! The spiciness and slight bitterness come from the polyphenols it contains – valuable antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties.

Honey

Is your honey raw and untreated?

Yes, our honey is 100% raw, unheated and unfiltered. This preserves all natural enzymes, vitamins and antioxidants.

Does your honey crystallize?

Yes, natural honey crystallizes over time – this is a natural process. Not all varieties crystallize at the same rate or to the same degree. Crystallization has no bearing on or influence on the quality of the honey.

If necessary, you can gently warm the honey in a water bath (max. 40 °C) to make it liquid again.

Where does your honey come from?

Our honey comes from selected regions of Greece, known for their rich flora and sustainable beekeeping – including Crete, the Peloponnese and the Pindus Mountains.

Is your honey certified organic?

Some varieties are certified organic, others come from wild harvesting in remote, pristine areas – without pesticides or industrial agriculture. The respective certification is indicated on the product.

Why does every honey taste different?

Honey is a natural product. Depending on the flowering season, region, and climate, its taste, color, and consistency vary. This makes each batch unique.

Is the honey suitable for children?

Honey should not be given to children under 12 months old. For older children, it is a valuable natural product – please consider individual tolerance.

Can I use honey as a sweetener instead of sugar?

Yes. Honey is a very healthy substitute for sugar and can be used to sweeten both drinks and meals.

Herbs

Are your herbs really from Greece?

Yes! All our herbs come from a small producer in Crete who holds all quality certifications and has an EU-compliant organic certificate for all his products.

Are the herbs certified organic?

Our herbs come from certified organic farming (EU organic label). For wild-harvested herbs, we guarantee purity through regular laboratory tests and sustainable harvesting practices.

How do I prepare the tea?

Ideally, pour hot, but not boiling, water (around 90°C) over them and let them steep for 5–10 minutes. For a more intense flavor, you can also briefly boil the herbs.

How long will the herbs keep?

Typically 18–24 months. Please store in a cool, dry place away from light – ideally in an airtight container.

What is the difference between "Malotira" and "Diktamos"?

Malotira is the traditional Cretan mountain tea herb (Sideritis syriaca), while dittany (Origanum dictamnus) is revered as a medicinal plant in Crete. Both have unique aromas and uses in natural medicine.

Can I also use the herbs when cooking?

Yes, many of our herbs – such as oregano, thyme or bay leaf – are excellent spices for Mediterranean dishes.

Black garlic & black garlic paste

What is black garlic?

Black garlic is produced by fermenting fresh white garlic under controlled conditions (heat and humidity) over several weeks. During this process, the garlic's smell, taste, and texture change: it turns black, becomes soft, and develops a sweet, mild aroma reminiscent of balsamic vinegar, plums, or licorice.

Does black garlic contain additives or preservatives?

No. Our black garlic contains 100% fermented garlic – no additives, no preservatives, no added sugar. A pure natural product.

What does black garlic taste like?

Black garlic has a surprisingly mild, slightly sweet aroma with notes of dried fruit, balsamic vinegar, and umami. The typical pungency of raw garlic disappears completely through fermentation.

What is the difference between this and black garlic paste?

Our black garlic paste is made from the same fermented bulbs – it's simply finely pureed, making it even easier to measure and use. The paste is refined with agave syrup and is ideal for dressings, marinades, sauces, or for enhancing the flavor of dishes.

How do I use black garlic?

Whole: Eaten straight away as a healthy snack, on bread or with cheese. In the kitchen: To enhance meat, fish, vegetables, risotto, pasta or salads. Paste: Simply stir into dips, mayonnaise, hummus or soups – one spoonful is enough for intense flavor.

Is black garlic healthy?

Yes. Fermentation increases the antioxidant content, especially S-allyl-cysteine ​​(SAC) – a bioavailable form that is particularly well absorbed by the body. Black garlic is considered anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and metabolism-stimulating.

How should I store black garlic?

Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Once opened, we recommend refrigerating the product and consuming it within a few weeks.

Is black garlic suitable for sensitive stomachs?

Yes. Since it no longer contains any spiciness or raw ingredients, black garlic is generally very well tolerated – even by people with sensitive stomachs or those who have difficulty digesting fresh garlic.

Where does your black garlic come from?

Our black garlic is made from high-quality Greek garlic and fermented in Greece using traditional methods – 100% natural, handcrafted and locally produced.

Do you have any further questions?

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