Babić Olive Mill: three extra virgin olive oil blends from Bužinija

Babić Olive Mill in Bužinija near Novigrad produces three extra virgin olive oil blends: Leccino, Bjelica and Šime. Mill tours and comparative tastings of the oils with cheese and wine are arranged two or three days in advance.

Three blends: Leccino, Bjelica and Šime

Leccino and Bjelica take their names from the cultivars that predominate in each blend, but neither is a single-varietal oil. Leccino is milder and suits a range of dishes, while Bjelica has a more pronounced bitterness.

Šime combines buža and rošulja. It is a more aromatic oil intended primarily for cold dishes. Tasting the oils side by side makes their differences in aroma, bitterness and intensity easier to recognise.

The 2024 Flos Olei guide awarded OPG Ante Babić 92 points out of 100.

Nine hectares of olive groves and processing in the family’s own mill

The Babić family cultivates nine hectares around Novigrad, with more than 2,000 olive trees. The groves include leccino, frantoio, Istarska bjelica, buža and other cultivars.

The farm is certified organic, and the olives are harvested while still green. Its own mill allows them to be processed immediately after harvest.

A mill tour and comparative tasting

A visit begins in the production facility and continues with a comparative tasting of the three blends with cheese and wine. The tasting room can accommodate groups of up to 50.

The oils can be bought on site, and free parking is available beside the mill. Visits should be arranged two or three days in advance.

Distance from Bale: 41 minutes driving (51.1 km)

Olive oil score in the Flos Olei guide: 2020 92, 2024 92

Address: Stancija Vinjeri 27J, Bužinija, 52466 Novigrad-Cittanova, Istria, Croatia

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