Brief
So, when you have a region that has a certain terroir and farmers for various reasons there favor particular cultivars, the results is that the oils from that region express a sensory profile that the farmers are proud of — an oil that pairs nicely with regional cuisines. To brand that taste profile and protect the brand, there are geographical indications, like D.O.P. (Denominazione d’ Origine Protetta), PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) or AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée)
Want to be an olive oil expert? The Olive Oil Times Education Lab offers courses in New York, London and online.