MONTEROSSO

Aristoleo Certification Protocol

Aristoleo Certification is a Free designation offered to High Phenolic EVOO producers who have received an Aristoleo Award which qualified them according to the phenolic profile as per the qNMR analysis and for organoleptic analysis for no defects.

Aristoleo Certified is a prestigious designation awarded to producers of High Phenolic Extra Virgin Olive Oil (HP EVOO) who meet rigorous standards of quality and demonstrate a commitment to preserving the health-promoting properties of this exceptional product.

Established in 2016 as an extension of the annual Aristoleo Awards, this certification program recognizes excellence in HP EVOO production, ensuring consumers have access to olive oil with superior quality and health benefits.

The foundation of the Aristoleo Certified program lies in the scientific recognition of the health benefits associated with specific phenolic compounds found in olive oil. In 2012, the European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) confirmed the positive impact of hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and oleuropein complex derivatives on human health. This landmark decision led to the EU labelling regulation 432/2012, which allows health claims related to these “active polar phenols” in olive oil

Certification Criteria

MONTEROSSO

MONTEROSSO

Today the MONTEROSSO  property spans 65 hectares and includes 14,000 olive trees, over 50,000 grape vines, 2,000 cherry trees, 600 almond trees, and the same amount of fig trees, as well as some other cultures.

Our terroir benefits from a special microclimate thanks to its proximity to the sea, with vineyards and other cultures situated 50 meters above sea level. The open space allows for constant circulation of the wind, creating a dry and windy environment that greatly reduces precipitation and benefits the growth of vines and olives. Our cultures receive plenty of sunlight and grow in three different types of soil: limestone, white soil, and mostly red soil. Our terroir is well-drained, and our vineyards are equipped with a pipe system for watering. All of these factors, along with expert care, result in healthy grapes and olives that yield high-quality products.

From the estate, you can enjoy beautiful views of neatly planted agricultural crops on mild slopes, with some positions offering a picturesque view of the sea and stretching all the way to the Slovenian and Italian shores. Those stunning views and serene surroundings make it the perfect location for relaxation, celebration, or team-building activities.

With a unique story and boundless experiences Monte Rosso Estate is located in the northwestern part of Istria, in the village of Crveni Vrh – Red Hill (in Italian Monte Rosso – after which it was named).

Our story began in 2006 and is rooted in the unity that guides our everyday life, particularly the unity of nature and man. The land was once cultivated, but it eventually became overgrown with bushes. We have cleaned and tidied it up again, creating a paradise that provides healthy and high-quality products for our and future generations. We connect three countries – Croatia, Italy and Slovenia – making Monte Rosso not only a bridge between nations but also a link between the past and the future

Polyphenols are “sacred” to us and therefore we take every necessary measure to preserve them in the best possible way.

Date of Harvest: 27, 28. Sept.

Time between harvest and milling: 1-2 hours

Storage container temperature: Constantly at 13° C

Inert gas top off the storage container: Yes, Argon.

Inert gas top off in every bottle: Yes, Argon.

MONTEROSSO Phenolic Content Highlights

Oleocanthal = 215 mg per kg

Oleacein = 226 mg per kg

Oleocanthal + Oleacein = 439 mg per kg

Ligstroside Aglycone (monoaldehyde form) = 32 mg per kg

Oleuropein Aglycone (monoaldehyde form) = 52 mg per kg

Ligstroside Aglycone (dialdehyde form) = 330 mg per kg

Oleuropein Aglycone (dialdehyde form) = 282 mg per kg

Free Tyrosol = 38 mg per kg

Total Tyrosol Derivatives = 612 mg per kg

Total Hydroxytyrosol Derivatives = 562 mg per kg

Total Phenolic compounds per kg = 1174 mg pr kg

 

Certification Criteria for MONTEROSSO

Olive Grove Management

1. Employs regenerative/organic farming methods.

2. Certified organic farming methods.

3. Employs biodynamic farming methods.

Harvesting Practices

1. Optimizes harvest timing to preserve phenolic content.

2. Utilizes appropriate harvesting techniques to minimize damage to olives.

Milling Process

1. Employs climate-controlled facilities to maintain optimal temperatures.

2. Employs efficient milling processes to minimize the time between harvest and processing.

3. Optimizes olive mill settings to preserve phenolic compounds.

Storage Conditions

1. Maintains optimal storage temperatures (12.5 – 15°C or 54 – 59°F).

2. Uses approved storage containers (e.g., stainless steel) to protect phenolic content.

Bottling & Packaging

1. Selects appropriate bottle types (e.g., dark glass) to minimize light exposure.

2. Uses packaging materials and methods that prevent oxidation and preserve quality.

Quality Control

1. Implements regular testing of phenolic content using approved methods.

2. Maintains traceability measures to track olives from grove to bottle.

Sustainability Practices

1. Demonstrates environmental responsibility in production methods (e.g., water conservation, waste reduction).

2. Employs organic or biodynamic farming methods (if applicable).

Social Responsibility

1. Adheres to fair labor practices, providing safe working conditions, and promoting fair wages.

2. Engages with the local community through educational programs or support initiatives.

Consumer Education

1. Provides transparent labelling that clearly indicates phenolic content and health benefits.

2. Endeavors to educate consumers about the importance of high phenolic content in EVOO.