Our Olive Oil
Situated in the Yackandandah Valley in North East Victoria, more than 550 olive trees were planted over 35 acres at Fairview House, with a north facing aspect. Olive trees planted include traditional olive oil varieties (such as Correggiola), dual purpose olives (olives for table fruit and oil) and larger table fruit bearing olive trees (e.g. Kalamata).
The property is managed under organic principles, using traditional farming techniques. Many tasks are performed by hand
Olive Tree Maintenance
In early spring, the olives trees are pruned on a rotational basis. The olives trees are planted in three groves, with one grove pruned per year. Organic fertilizer – chook poo and dynamic lifter – is applied when necessary.
While the trees are irrigated, the trees are only watered in their early establishing years (1-3). After this period, the trees need to be self-sufficient. Sheep are grazed through the groves during spring and to keep the grass down and enable the trees to compete against the grasses. A slasher and wiper sniper is used when the grass gets out of control.
Bugs and diseases are managed using a long term approach, with organic sprays used as a last resort.
Harvest
Harvesting generally occurs in May of each year. The fruit is hand-picked over a weekend with the help of family and friends. At the end of each day, the picked olives are sent to a fruit processor.
Currently we are using The Wicked Virgin in Rutherglen to process the olives. No chemicals are using in the processing. The oil is pressed into 50 Litre stainless steel drums and transported back to Fairview House to settle, and bottling at a later date.
Bottling generally happens 1-2 months after pressing, and is available for sale immediately.
Our Products
The Olive Dowry is sold in both 500ml and 375ml. You can find us each month at the Yackandandah Community Markets or by contacting us at info@theolivedowry.com.au for bulk orders.
We also have 100ml bottles available for special occasions – such as a wedding gift or family celebration – for which we will customise the product label. Please contact us at info@theolivedowry.com.au