Chemlali is the most widely planted olive in Tunisia, a country that ranks among the largest olive-oil exporters in the world. Bred for hot, dry conditions, it gives a soft, fruity and approachable oil: ripe fruit, almond and a gentle, mildly bitter finish. Much Tunisian Chemlali is exported in bulk to blend and bottle elsewhere, but single-origin Tunisian extra virgins are increasingly recognised on their own merits.
Soft and fruity: ripe fruit and almond, a gentle, mildly bitter finish.
Harvested from late October through December and January. Buy the freshest crop you can find — and check the harvest date on the bottle.