WELLINGTON, WESTERN CAPE – South Africa’s olive oil industry celebrated exceptional achievements yesterday as the 2025 SA Olive Awards crowned the country’s finest Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) producers at the scenic Diemersfontein Wine and Country Estate near Wellington.
The prestigious annual ceremony, held on Tuesday, 9 September, recognised 32 gold medal winners, 49 silver medal winners, and 9 bronze medal winners – totalling 90 award-winning olive oils that showcase the exceptional quality driving this fast-growing agricultural sector.
Leading the gold medal charge, Tokara, Mardouw Investments, De Rustica Estate, and Babylonstoren each secured multiple top honours, with their premium EVOOs spanning delicate, medium, and intense flavour profiles. Willow Creek Products also distinguished itself with four gold medals across various cultivars.
“The SA Olive Awards celebrates the entire industry’s commitment to quality and authenticity, rewarding the hard work of South African producers who elevate our EVOOs to a world-class standard,” said Wendy Petersen, CEO of SA Olive.
Darryl Jacobs from The Western Cape Department of Agriculture emphasised the sector’s broader significance: “The olive industry represents a growing pillar of agriculture in the Western Cape. Beyond its economic significance, it also contributes to rural development, employment, and tourism.”
Long-term industry supporter Woolworths reaffirmed its commitment to showcasing South African excellence. Claudia Pentasaib highlighted the retailer’s dedication: “These award-winning EVOOs remind consumers that South Africa produces oils equal to, and in many cases better than, those from traditional olive-growing countries.”
The ceremony also honoured industry stalwarts, with Felicia Mouries from Tokara receiving the Agri-Worker of the Year Award and Nick Wilkinson being presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The awards were made possible through the generous support of sponsors including Absa, Old Mutual, the Western Cape Department of Agriculture, and Woolworths, all contributing to driving excellence and innovation in South Africa’s olive industry.
The 2025 SA Olive Awards reinforced South Africa’s position as a producer of world-class olive oils, celebrating not only the exceptional products but also the people and partnerships that continue to elevate this thriving agricultural sector on both local and global stages.
For more information, visit the SA Olive website or follow SA Olive on Instagram and Facebook.
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