The Région confirms its commitment to olive growing
Each year, it supports collective actions in the sector with nearly €300,000, while accompanying investment projects led by...
Thus, the Région, in partnership with France Olive, honors regional olive-growing excellence through a landmark competition in which the best olive oils from the Région Sud are distinguished. During the 24th edition, 61 mills and estates from Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse presented 196 olive oils submitted to the evaluation of a jury of experts. Bénédicte Martin, Vice-President in charge of Agriculture, viticulture, rurality, and terroir, and Laurent Belorgey, President of France Olive, presented the awards to the winners of the 10 categories in competition.
A true showcase for the know-how of regional olive growers, this competition highlights the diversity and quality of local production. For the 2026 edition, 58 distinctions were awarded, including 37 gold medals and 21 silver medals.
“The regional olive oil competition illustrates the excellence and commitment of our territory's producers. The Région Sud is mobilized to support an emblematic sector that combines tradition, quality, and adaptation to climate challenges,” said Renaud Muselier, President of the Région.
“This competition is much more than a simple awards ceremony; it reflects the resilience and passion that drive our olive growers and millers. Despite sometimes demanding climatic conditions, the quality of the oils presented this year testifies to a mastered technical know-how. By rewarding these talents, we value not only a flagship product of our gastronomy but also all the work of the sector to offer consumers oils of character, rooted in their terroir,” added the President of France Olive.
Photo RUOPPOLO.
PLEASE NOTE... THE RÉGION PROVENCE-ALPES-CÔTE D'AZUR IS: • 65% of national olive oil production, • The leading French olive-growing basin with around 3,300 tonnes produced each year, • 6 Protected Designations of Origin (PDO) (olive oil from Nyons, olive oil from the Vallée des Baux-de-Provence, olive oil from Aix-en-Provence, olive oil from Haute-Provence, olive oil from Nice, olive oil from Provence).
Photo RUOPPOLO.