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Fedra Olive Grove, a family-operated enterprise situated near Collector in New South Wales, has been crowned the Champion Australian Olive Oil Producer at the prestigious Melbourne Royal Australian Food Awards. Established in 1999 by Spiros (Jeff) and Fedra Konstantinou, the grove was born from a desire to reconnect with their Greek heritage while introducing high-quality olive oil to the Australian market.
The operation currently manages over 6,000 olive trees, utilizing a specialized Italian olive oil press to extract premium extra virgin olive oil. Jeff Konstantinou emphasizes that the secret to their success lies in the delicate balance of the harvest. By timing the pick, they manage the trade-off between lower yields with intense flavors and higher yields with milder profiles. The brand offers two distinct lines: 'Fedra' oil for those seeking a robust European-style taste, and 'Jeff’s Blend,' a milder alternative favored by local restaurants.
A key selling point for the producer is the absence of chemicals in their production process. This commitment to purity has garnered a loyal customer base spanning over 15 years. The quality of Fedra’s products was validated by a panel led by Claudia Guillaume of the Olive Wellness Institute. Guillaume noted that the winning oils displayed vibrant aromas, harmonious complexity, and exceptional freshness—a characteristic she identified as a significant competitive advantage for Australian producers.
This recent victory adds to a long history of accolades that began in 2009. Fedra Olive Grove has also tested its products on the international stage, securing gold medals in competitions against traditional producers in Italy and Greece. Despite the challenges of the industry, the Konstantinou family remains dedicated to maintaining their high standards and inviting consumers to experience the grove firsthand.
Source: Region Canberra