You fork out a little extra to get a taste of those Belgian chocolates, the French champagne or the Scotch whiskey with the right label. And you instantly realise the mediocrity of everything else.
It’s much the same with Willow Creek Olive Estate’s extra virgin olive oils, which raked in 21 accolades from across the globe – in 2016 alone! But this is merely a continuation of Willow Creek’s unwavering commitment to excellence: without exception, every year since 2005 saw it winning prestigious international awards. The lists have just grown longer.
It is hard to believe that olives were owner Andries Rabie’s back-up in 1999 when things didn’t go to plan in the wine industry. “But if you do something with heart and soul, you give it your all and you search until you find a solution for every setback, the result is consistent quality,” says Louise Rabie, Willow Creek Brand Manager and other half of the husband-and-wife team.
The accolades play a major part backing Willow Creek in its trading and marketing efforts, so slowing down is not an option.
“We persistently strive for improvement,” says Louise. New technology and better cultivation, extraction, storage or bottling methods can always be found. For this reason, attending international expos, membership of associations such as the Extra Virgin Alliance (EVA) for premium-level oils, and courses like the blending course Louise will attend next year, are a priority. “What you really don’t want, is stagnation,” she says.
This continuous pursuit of excellence was handsomely rewarded with the number 20 position on the World Ranking Extra Virgin Olive Oil Producers’ list last year, and the number 50 spot for its Directors’ Reserve on the list of top 100 oils.
“Actually, we just feel blessed,” says Louise. “You can do your part, but you don’t have total control over how the final product will be received.” In 2016, the international awards were the stamp of approval on yet another successful year. And the ABSA Top 5 position – the last award of the season and 100% home-grown – the perfect grand finale!
