Celebrating Excellence in Olive Oils – AVPA 2026 Gastronomic Jury

On April 13th and 14th, AVPA – Agency for the Valorization of Agricultural Products had the pleasure of hosting the gastronomic jury sessions of the International World Edible Oils Contest, dedicated to olive oils.

Over the course of these two days, four tasting sessions were conducted by oil specialist Paz Figares Mignot, in full accordance with the rigorous AVPA tasting protocol.

Prior to these sessions, all samples submitted for the 2026 edition — more than 200 oils — underwent an initial evaluation by the CTO (Centre Technique de l’Olivier), as part of the AVPA technical jury chaired by Christian Pinatel. This essential step ensures a thorough and expert analysis of the oils based on strict technical criteria.Following this demanding selection process, only the most outstanding oils were chosen to be presented to the gastronomic jury in Paris, where they were assessed from both a sensory and culinary perspective.

More than 90 olive oils were thus tasted, each within its respective flavor category, through blind evaluation and according to strict criteria ensuring a fair, precise, and respectful assessment of each product’s identity.

Beyond a simple tasting, these sessions represent a true moment of excellence and recognition of the producers’ work. Each oil reflects an origin, a terroir, a know-how, and the dedication of those committed to achieving excellence.

We extend our sincere thanks to all jury members — chefs, gastronomes, culinary press, distributors, and taste professionals — for their presence, rigor, and professionalism throughout these sessions.

Special thanks to Ferrandi Alumni and to Marie-Pascal Ragon for the valuable connections established with the Ferrandi alumni network and their active participation in the jury sessions.

The next step is the analysis of the results, which will be officially announced in mid-May on our website. The awards ceremony will take place on June 8th during the Gourmet Sélection trade fair.

For over 20 years, AVPA has been committed to promoting outstanding agricultural products, highlighting producers, and showcasing the richness of terroirs around the world. Because tasting is not only about evaluation — it is also about recognizing, sharing, and celebrating the diversity of cultures and flavors.

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