The King of Greek Olives: Koroneiki

Greece is home to some of the world’s finest olives, but one variety stands out as the true king of olive oil production—the Koroneiki olive. Known for its small size yet incredibly high yield of high-quality oil, this tiny but mighty olive has been cultivated in Greece for over 3,000 years.

Growing primarily in the sun-drenched regions of the Peloponnese and Crete, Koroneiki olives thrive in Greece’s rocky soils and warm Mediterranean climate. Their resilience makes them one of the most reliable and consistent producers of extra virgin olive oil. Unlike larger table olives such as Kalamata, Koroneiki olives are rarely eaten whole. Instead, they are prized for their superior oil, which is rich in polyphenols—natural antioxidants that contribute to both its health benefits and distinctive taste.

How Do Koroneiki Olives Differ from Other Olives?

While there are hundreds of olive varieties grown across the Mediterranean, Koroneiki olives have some unique characteristics that set them apart:

Small But Mighty – Unlike larger olives used for eating, Koroneiki olives are tiny, but they produce an exceptionally high oil content (up to 27% of their weight).

Rich, Peppery Taste – The oil from Koroneiki olives has a bold, fruity flavor with a characteristic peppery finish, a sign of its high antioxidant levels. This makes it a favorite among chefs and food lovers who appreciate a robust, high-quality olive oil.

High in Polyphenols – Compared to other varieties, Koroneiki olive oil is one of the richest in polyphenols, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and heart-protective properties. This is why it is often referred to as “the healthiest olive oil”.

Longer Shelf Life – Thanks to its high antioxidant content, Koroneiki olive oil is more stable and lasts longer than many other types of extra virgin olive oil. This means it retains its freshness and health benefits for longer.

Grown for Oil, Not Eating – Unlike Kalamata or Halkidiki olives, which are enjoyed as table olives, Koroneiki olives are rarely eaten whole. Their true value lies in the world-class olive oil they produce.

Why Koroneiki Olive Oil is Special?

If you’ve ever tasted high-quality Greek olive oil, chances are it was made from Koroneiki olives. The oil is smooth, well-balanced, and full of character, perfect for drizzling over fresh salads, dipping with bread, or enhancing Mediterranean dishes. Whether you’re looking for the health benefits of extra virgin olive oil or simply want a premium, authentic taste of Greece, Koroneiki olive oil is an essential addition to any kitchen.

We are excited to bring our very own family-produced Zoubaki Extra Virgin Olive Oil to the UK. Harvested from our Koroneiki olive groves in Epitalio, it’s a true taste of Greek tradition—pure, unfiltered, and packed with goodness.

If you haven’t tried our Zoubaki Extra Virgin Olive Oil yet, now is the time to experience Greece’s liquid gold for yourself!