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The International Olive Council (IOC) invites producers, producer associations, and bottlers of extra virgin olive oil from Northern Hemisphere countries to take part in the 2026 edition of the Mario Solinas Quality Award, one of the most prestigious international competitions specialized in the sensory quality of olive oil. Established in 2000 in honor of Professor Mario Solinas, a pioneer in the sensory analysis of oils, the award celebrates extra virgin olive oils with outstanding sensory quality according to the IOC's standards. The competition is open to oils produced during the 2025/2026 season; samples are evaluated by an international jury of presidents of accredited tasting panels, with gold, silver, and bronze medals awarded in each category. All materials and samples must be delivered to the IOC Executive Secretariat in Madrid before the set deadline. (Dates are approximate for the sample and nomination submission period.)