Olive oil in Albania – the gold of Mediterranean cuisine

05/28/2025

In Albania, olive trees are an integral part of the landscape – you can find them almost everywhere. The local olive oil is considered one of the best in the entire Mediterranean region. Its high quality results not only from the climate but also from traditional production methods and the involvement of local families, who often press the oil themselves in home-based mills.

Home-made olive oil – a must-have supply in every family

In Albania, olive oil is the foundation of cuisine and daily life. Practically every family stocks up on 30-40 liters of oil each year. It’s not just a culinary must-have, but also an element of tradition and local identity.

How to choose good olive oil? A guide for tourists

If you’re planning to buy olive oil from Albania, pay attention to a few important issues:

  • Avoid cheap products – high-quality oil costs from about 40 PLN per liter upwards. A low price often means low quality and lack of nutritional value.
  • Bottles matter – the best oil is sold in opaque bottles or metal cans. Light destroys delicate ingredients, so transparent packaging is a bad sign.
  • Read labels – check if the olives were harvested and pressed in the same place. The shorter the time from harvest to pressing (preferably up to 3 hours), the more valuable polyphenols the oil retains.
  • Color isn’t everything – the color of the oil depends on the variety and ripeness of the olives. It doesn’t directly indicate its quality.
  • Don’t be fooled by a delicate taste – real, good quality oil is aromatic, slightly spicy, and leaves a bitter aftertaste in the mouth. It’s this taste that indicates a high content of antioxidants.

How to store olive oil?

It’s best to keep it in a cool, dark place – but not in the fridge! Under proper conditions, the oil will retain its properties for a whole year, until the next harvest. Nature has ensured that this liquid treasure serves through all seasons.

Where to buy real Albanian olive oil?

During your vacation in Albania (and other Mediterranean countries), avoid supermarkets and souvenir shops. The oil there is often no different from what’s available in Poland. Instead:

  • Buy from local producers – preferably directly from agritourism farms.
  • Choose oil in dark bottles or cans that don’t let light through.
  • Check the harvest and pressing date – the closer they are, the better.

How much does good olive oil cost in Albania?

You’ll pay about 20 PLN for a liter of the highest quality oil, although the price may vary depending on the season and harvest. It’s a small investment in your health and a taste that’s hard to replicate.