Babić Oil Mill: three organic blends and tastings in Bužinija

Babić Oil Mill in Bužinija makes three organic blends from its own groves. Leccino, Bjelica and Šime are compared during tastings booked in advance.

Organic groves and the family’s own mill

The Babić family grows more than 2,000 trees across nine hectares, among them Leccino, Frantoio, Istarska bjelica and Buža. The olives are picked green and milled immediately in the family’s own facility at Bužinija near Novigrad.

The mill can process up to 1.4 tonnes an hour, keeping the interval between picking and milling as short as possible. Flos Olei awarded OPG Ante Babić 92 points out of 100 in its 2024 guide.

Three blends with distinct profiles

Leccino and Bjelica are named after their predominant varieties, but neither is a single-variety oil. Leccino is the gentler blend and works across a broad range of dishes. Bjelica brings firmer bitterness, while Šime combines Buža and Rosiciola in an aromatic blend for seasoning dishes after cooking.

Tasting after a tour of the mill

A visit begins with the production process, followed by a side-by-side tasting of Leccino, Bjelica and Šime with cheese and wine. The tasting room welcomes groups of up to 50 people. Visits are arranged two to three days in advance, and the oils can be bought on the estate.

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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