Mytilini

Mytilini, also known as Kolovi or Valanolia, is a variety of olive that is native to the island of Lesvos (or Mytilene) in Greece. Mytilini is small to medium-sized olives with an oval or round shape typically harvested in November. They have a deep purple or black color when fully ripened.
Mytilini olives are harvested by hand, ensuring careful selection and handling to maintain their integrity. They have high oil content and are often used to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a fruity flavor and a peppery finish.
Mytilini olive trees are well adapted to the dry and hot climate of the Aegean islands and are grown in both traditional and modern orchards.
In terms of taste, Mytilini olives are known for their fruity and mildly bitter flavor. They have a rich and complex taste that can vary depending on the specific growing conditions and processing methods. Some common flavor notes found in Mytilini olives include hints of sweetness, grassiness, and a pleasant olive aroma.
These olives are often used in both table olive preparations and olive oil production. They are typically cured or brined before being consumed as table olives. Mytilini olives are also used to produce high-quality extra virgin olive oil with a distinct flavor profile. The olive oil produced from Mytilini (or Kolovi) olives is characterized by its low acidity, vibrant green-gold color, and rich flavor.
If you have the chance to taste Mytilini olives or their oil, we encourage you to do so. They offer a delightful combination of flavors and showcase the unique characteristics of olives from the Lesvos region.