As olive oil prices continue to surge dramatically, with the cost of a standard bottle more than doubling in recent years, consumers are increasingly asking which options deliver genuine value. Is it necessary to invest in high-end brands, or can supermarket offerings match their quality? To address this, a comprehensive taste test was conducted, scrutinising supermarket shelves to identify the finest olive oils available for 2026.
Understanding Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) represents the pinnacle of olive oil quality, essentially serving as pure olive juice extracted through a cold-press method that maintains temperatures below 27°C. To preserve its freshness, flavour, and nutritional benefits, olives must be pressed within 72 hours of harvest. EVOO must remain completely unrefined, with its flavour and aroma heavily influenced by its geographical origin, much like wine. However, unlike wine, EVOO does not improve with age and is best consumed within two years of harvest. For optimal storage, select dark or tinted bottles to shield the oil from light, and keep them in a cool, shaded area. Large bottles are generally discouraged unless you consume olive oil rapidly.
Beyond its culinary appeal, EVOO is celebrated for its health advantages. Rich in monounsaturated fats, similar to those found in avocados and nuts, research associates it with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and other conditions. It also contains abundant polyphenols, which provide antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Testing Methodology
The evaluation involved tasting 15 bottles of extra virgin olive oil sourced from supermarkets, narrowing the selection down to the top five. The traditional olive oil tasting method was employed: pouring the oil into a glass, warming it with hands, cupping a hand over the top, taking a deep sniff, and then a sip. Similar to wine tasting, the oil was held at the front of the mouth before air was sucked in to distribute it to the back. Criteria included aroma intensity and complexity, flavour profile balance, texture, performance in a bread test, versatility, quality markers like PDO status, and overall value for money.
The Top Five Supermarket Olive Oils for 2026
1. Asda Extra Special Greek Koroneiki Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Best Supermarket Olive Oil Overall
This 500ml bottle, originating from Greece, is crafted from koroneiki olives, the predominant variety used in Greek olive oil production. It offers a fruity and slightly creamy profile with bitter and nutty undertones, delivering a rich, balanced experience complemented by a subtle rocket-like peppery finish. The depth and intensity of flavour are particularly impressive, making it ideal for finishing classic Greek salads. Its distinctive blue marbled label sets it apart from conventional designs. Priced at approximately £8, it represents excellent value for a high-quality EVOO.
2. Aldi Specially Selected P.D.O Castel Del Monte Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Best Budget Supermarket Olive Oil
Hailing from Italy's Puglian region, this 500ml oil boasts Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status, ensuring authenticity and quality. As typical of Aldi's Specially Selected range, it provides remarkable value at around £6. The flavour is bold and assertive, with fruity and herbaceous aromas, slightly bitter and floral notes, and a long peppery aftertaste. It pairs excellently with cold meats, though note that it is primarily available in-store rather than online.
3. Belazu Early Harvest Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Best for Bold Flavour
While not a supermarket own brand, Belazu is widely available in major supermarkets and is renowned for reliability. This 500ml Spanish oil, made from early-harvested arbequina olives, captures intense flavours due to the early picking process. It features a tomato-like aroma, a blend of bitterness and floral sweetness, and is ideal for salads. The bottle details the cold extraction process, emphasising quality preservation. At about £14, it is a premium option worth savouring.
4. Filippo Berio Organic Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Best for Everyday Use
A household name since 1867, Filippo Berio offers this 1-litre organic EVOO, blending olives from Italy, Spain, and Tunisia. It presents grassy and herbaceous notes with slight bitterness and nutty accents, all housed in a glass bottle. Priced at around £18, it serves as a versatile, everyday choice for various culinary applications.
5. Waitrose Duchy Organic Spanish Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Best Mild Olive Oil
This 500ml organic Spanish oil from Waitrose's Duchy Organic range supports a charitable fund raising approximately £3 million annually. It is characterised by a smooth, light flavour with fresh tomato aromas and floral notes, culminating in a mild peppery hint. Perfect for those preferring subtler oils, it excels as a bread-dipping oil, though it may be too delicate for some palates. At about £7, it offers a gentle, refined option.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best supermarket olive oil? After extensive testing, the Asda Extra Special Greek koroneiki extra virgin olive oil stands out for its well-rounded, fruity, and creamy flavour with nutty notes, offering exceptional value. For those seeking a savouring experience, the Waitrose Valli Trapanesi or Belazu early harvest oils are recommended.
Should I cook with extra virgin olive oil? While EVOO has a lower smoke point, making it less ideal for deep frying (where sunflower oil is preferable), it is still suitable for cooking. Mediterranean and Japanese cuisines, both associated with longevity, frequently use it. The decision often hinges on personal preference and budget considerations.
Trust and Expertise
The reviews are conducted by Emma Henderson, a seasoned food editor with extensive experience, including editing IndyEats and being shortlisted for Guild of Food Writers Awards. Her rigorous testing process ensures reliable recommendations, supported by thorough tasting and evaluation of each product.
